Hypothermia in a dog: reasons. symptoms, first aid, treatment, prevention

Hypothermia and frostbite are very dangerous for dogs, as they entail serious consequences not only for health, but also for the life of the dog. Therefore, it is important to be able to protect your pet from them.

Symptoms of hypothermia in dogs

1. Trembling and chills are the first signs of hypothermia in a dog.
2. If you miss the first signs, the next stage occurs: the dog becomes lethargic and lethargic.
3. Loss of consciousness and coma.

Symptoms of frostbite in dogs

With frostbite, you can notice a huge difference between healthy areas of the skin and frostbite:

1. Reduced temperature of the affected area.
2. Decreased or complete lack of sensitivity of the affected area.
3. Change in skin color: first pale, then redness progresses, and then the skin darkens until black.
4. Bubbles may appear as if burned.

Peripheral areas (ears, paws, fingers, mammary glands, genitals) are most often frostbite.

How to help a dog with hypothermia or frostbite

If you notice the above symptoms, immediately put the dog in heat. It is worth noting that the warming process can be painful for the animal. It is important to warm the dog gradually, for this, rubbing is good (you can not rub the affected areas) and wrapping a warm blanket. Do not place the dog near the battery and heater, nor can you use a heating pad.

It is necessary to apply a multilayer cotton-gauze dressing on frost-bitten areas of the skin, but not tight - this will avoid a temperature difference.

Hypothermia is accompanied by a decrease in blood sugar, so you should give your pet a warm glucose solution (2 to 3 tablespoons of glucose per glass of water).

When treatment has been successfully completed, one must not forget that the dog, which was previously exposed to hypothermia, will be more sensitive to frost and cold in the future and is prone to repeated hypothermia and frostbite.

Prevention of hypothermia and frostbite of dogs

It is important to remember the prevention of frostbite and hypothermia in dogs.

In frosts and strong winds you need to reduce walking time.

It is also necessary to watch the dog. If you see that the dog is starting to tremble or feel uncomfortable, it is better to end the walk and head towards the house

Some dogs, especially shorthair dogs, should be worn even for short walks. For this, there are a huge number of overalls and shoes. Of course, the dog does not feel very comfortable, but it can save her health and life.

Watch the video: Heat Stroke, Causes, Signs and Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment. (January 2021).