A review of heat stroke and its complications in the canine

Authors: Carithers RW, Carithers BS, Larson RL
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 33, Issue 12, pp 202-206, Dec 1985
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Companion animal, Dog
Subject Terms: Circulatory system/haematology, Environment, Syndrome, Temperature, Disease/defect
Article class: Review Article

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Abstract: Introduction: Adult dogs can survive in an environment in which there are wide variations of temperature because of their ability to regulate their internal temperature. The internal temperature, however, must be maintained within the range of 5°C above normal to 15°C below the normal temperature of blood to avoid cellular injury or death. Thermal homeostasis occurs when there is a balance between “heat load” and heat dissipation. Heat load is defined as the summation of environmental and metabolic heat. Heat stroke occurs when heat load markedly exceeds the ability of the body compensatory mechanisms to promote heat loss. In man heat stroke is also due to ineffective thermoregulation. It is caused by the cessation of sweating, which is the main thermoregulatory mechanism. Heat stroke is characterised by hyperthermia (above IOYF), often complicated by alterations in many systems and organs such as acid-base balance, kidney, liver, cerebral oedema, and the blood clotting mechanism.

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