Overheating a problem for dogs
By Timothy B. Hackett, Denver Post
On a typical summer day it likely feels much hotter for many dogs.
In fact, heat-related illness is one of the most common preventable causes of multiple-organ failure in dogs.
Consider a few basics about canine physiology: Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat to regulate body temperature. Panting is the main mechanism for evaporative cooling of the body. A dog’s long nose also helps to cool air and regulate temperature.
But heat easily overpowers these functions, especially if a dog is sick, older or otherwise less able to effectively regulate body temperature.
And dogs, being dogs, rarely resist a chance to hike, run, fetch and play, even if this exercise leads to overheating.
This means owners must be attuned to the hazards of heat for their pets, beyond never leaving them in cars in the summer heat.