Page 257 - ATP-P 11th Ed

K9 HEAT INJURIES PROTOCOL

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS

1. Heat injuries are life threatening for an animal.
2. Dehydration accompanies heat injuries.
3. Crystalloids are preferred over colloids. However, use of colloids is better than
nothing.
4. Panting is critical for body temperature maintenance. Consider removing the
muzzle to facilitate respirations or panting. SECTION 2

Heat Exhaustion
Signs and Symptoms
1. Recent activity and history
2. Rectal temperature may be over 105° F (40.5° C)
3. Fast and shallow panting that does not slow in a couple of minutes or uncontrolled
panting
4. Heart rate may be over 140 bpm
5. Brick red mucus membranes
6. Pulse may be bounding or thready and weak
7. Dog looking for a cool place to lay down or just stops working

Heat Stroke
Signs and Symptoms
1. Recent activity and history
2. Rectal temp over 106° F (41.1° C)
3. Pale gums
4. Rapid and shallow breathing
5. Collapse
6. Weak
7. Uncoordinated
8. Seizures
9. Vomiting
10. Diarrhea

246 SECTION 2 TACTICAL MEDICAL EMERGENCY PROTOCOLS (TMEPs) ATP-P Handbook 11th Edition 247