SAR Dog heat stroke

Over exposure to direct sun (sun stroke) or excessive heat in a enclosed area can both lead to heat stroke. Although both forms of heat stroke seem similar there are some important differences in the symptoms that the SAR dog will present when suffering the affects of the heat stroke and in the manner of treating the condition. In the case of the heat stroke (sun stroke) resulting from being out side and being over exposed to direct sun, the SAR dog's skin will be hot and dry. The dog may also have some pre-stroke symptoms, such as: nausea, dizziness, or weakness. In any case the first really obvious signs of sun-induced heat stroke will be: collapse, unconsciousness, fast and labored breathing and the dog's pulse will be fast and strong. There can also be accompanying convulsions. Immediately but carefully move the SAR dog out of the direct sun and into a shaded cool area. Elevate the head and upper body so that it is a little higher than the rest of the dog's body. Cool the dog by bathing it with cold water or by placing towels soaked in cold water over it. Once the SAR dog fully regains consciousness you should give it some cold water to drink or cold water with a little salt (one tablespoon of salt to one liter of water). Never give a dog that is suffering from or has just suffered heat stroke anything hot to drink, stimulants or alcoholic beverages. When a SAR dog has been kept in an enclosed area that is too hot (such as a car standing in the sun with all of the windows rolled up) they will lose an excess amount of body fluid and salt (through sweating). The symptoms that a dog suffering from heat stroke for this reason will have are: dilated pupils, a fast but weak pulse, cold skin and sometimes muscle cramps. Take the SAR dog out of the enclosed area and place it in the open preferably a place with lots of cool fresh air. Keep the SAR dog lying down but with its lower limbs slightly elevated. If the dog is conscious and can swallow then you should allow it to drink large amounts of slightly warm water with salt mixed into it. You can add about ¼ teaspoon of salt to one glass of water. Later you can give the SAR dog warm to hot coffee or black tea. For SAR dogs suffering from either sun stroke or heat stroke you can use ice to cool their bodies as long as you only apply the ice for half an hour at a time and then let the dog rest one hour without ice. Seek immediate medical attention.