Hypothermia in dogs- as in people- occurs when body temps plummet following exposure to frigid temperatures for too long, or cold, windy environments while having wet fur.
As a dog walker in Toronto, a city that easily hits -30 temps, it is imperative that I know how to prevent, detect, and treat hypothermia in dogs. My own dog walks are all group walks, meaning that they are comprised of dogs of all ages, shapes and sizes. A temperature that is safe for a Husky can be life threatening to a chihuahua. It is my job to get all of the dogs walked and home safely in winter. I’m sharing this so that dog walkers, dog owners and dog lovers, have the knowledge to do the same.
Prevention:
Hypothermia can be prevented by not allowing your dog outside for too long in very cold weather or near frigid water. Be aware of how well your pet tolerates the cold as very young pets, very old pets, small dogs, and those with short hair can be most susceptible to hypothermia. If that describes your dog, consider equipping your pup with dog sweater or jacket with booties to protect their feet for outings. I also use cooking spray and Vaseline on paws to prevent snow buildup.
Symptoms:
Strong shivering and trembling followed by no shivering
Acting sleepy or lethargic and weak
Fur and skin are cold to the touch
Body temperature below 95 degrees (Fahrenheit)
Decreased heart rate
Dilated pupils (the black inner circle of the eye appears larger)
Gums and inner eyelids are pale or blue
Trouble walking
Trouble breathing
Stupor, unconsciousness, or coma
Treatment:
Treatment should begin immediately, as it can quickly become a life-threatening emergency. If you suspect your pet has hypothermia, take the following steps.
Remove your pet from the cold and put them in a warm room.
Dry off your pet thoroughly either with towels or a hair dryer set on low and held about 12 inches away.
Wrap your pet in a blanket (warm it in the clothes dryer first)
Wrap warm hot-water bottles in towels (to prevent burning your pet) and place on pet’s abdomen.
Heating pads can be used if your dog is dry, but supervise them so they don’t chew at the cords.
Allow your dog to drink warm fluids.
Check the pet’s temperature with a thermometer. If it’s below 95 degrees, the pet could be at risk for hypothermia. Take them to a veterinarian immediately.
If their temperature is above 95 degrees Fahrenheit, retake their temperature every 10 to 15 minutes to see how severe the hypothermia is while doing the warming techniques. Once their temperature is 100 degrees or higher, you can remove the hot-water bottle, but be sure to keep them warm. Get them checked by a veterinarian the same day, even when their temperature reaches 99 degrees or higher because one incidence of hypothermia can be harmful and make them prone to it again. If your pet doesn’t respond to warming up their body within 30 to 45 minutes, go to straight to emergency vet clinic.