Hypothermia and Frostbite part 2

PAWSITIVELY HELPFUL PET TIPS

WITH DR. DEB

"Hypothermia and Frostbite

part 2"

-Our recent snowfall and plummeting temperatures bring back the topic of TIPS FOR DOG SAFETY DURING THE WINTER MONTHS.  Since our winter has been relatively mild until recent weeks, these drastic temperature drops can catch even our hardy, snow loving dogs off guard.  My Rottweilers are very acclimated to outdoor living, yet they have been observed holding up a paw as recent cold days drew closer to sunset.

-A dog's ability to cope with cold outdoor temperatures can be breed dependent, as well as the dog's acclimation to cold based upon their regular lifestyle.  Huskies often actually perform best in below zero temperatures.  And, many hunting breeds readily handle retrieving in cold fall/winter lakes and rivers, while over heating doing the same activities in the summer.

HYPOTHERMIA

-Some early signs your dog may show if he/she is getting too cold, include slowing down from their play activity, beginning to sit down, consistently holding up or licking their paws, seeking out spots under trees clear of snow, and curling into a ball.

- The next progressive sign of hypothermia is often shivering that can't stop as the dog's core body temperature drops.

-If your dog's rectal temperature drops below 95 degrees F, he/she may become listless, develop weak pulses, and progress to greater lethargy and coma.  Prolonged cold exposure burns up stored energy and results in a low blood sugar causing greater weakness and mental dullness.

IF YOUR DOG SHOWS SIGNS OF HYPOTHERMIA:

-Wrap the dog in a blanket or coat and carry him/her to a warm location.  Certain dangerous phases of hypothermia can be worsened if the dog is forced to exercise.  If the dog is wet (fell into icy water), dry the dog vigorously with towels.  Wrap the dog in a warm blanket and take his/her rectal temperature.  If the temperature is above 95 degrees F, continue the warm blankets and encourage the dog to swallow a sugar solution such as honey, or 4 teaspoons (32g) of sugar dissolved in a pint of water.

-If the dog's rectal temperature is below 95 degrees F, NOTIFY YOUR VETERINARIAN.  While awaiting instructions, begin rapid warming by applying warm water bottles wrapped in a warm blanket and take his rectal temperature.  The temperature pf the packs should be about that of a baby bottle (warm to the wrist).  Take the rectal temperature every 10 minutes.  Change the warming packs until the rectal temperatures reaches 100 F (37.8 C).  Do not apply heat directly to the dog, as this may cause burns.  For the same reason, do not use a hair dryer to warm the dog.

*FROSTBITE- Frostbite occurs when a part of the body freezes.  It often accompanies hypothermia.  Frostbite tends to involve the tail, ear tips, pads of the feet, penis and scrotum of male dogs.  These parts are the most exposed and least protected by fur.