Hypothermia and Hyperthermia are two extreme changes in body temperature that can be very harmful to your pet and must be treated promptly. When the body temperature becomes too low, Hypothermia, your pet may experience symptoms such as violent shivering, shallow breathing and a slow heart rate. If your pet is experiencing any of these symptoms, bring them to a warm room and cover them with warm towels or blankets (you can warm up the towels or blankets up by running them through the clothes dryer). You can also use warm water bottles wrapped in towels or a hair dryer on its lowest setting. Acting quickly can prevent permanent damage to the tissues and possibly death.
Hyperthermia (Heatstroke) occurs when the body’s temperature rises above 104 degrees and can be fatal if not treated within the first hour. Symptoms include rapid panting, thick/sticky saliva, red or pale gums, vomiting (sometimes with blood), diarrhea, weakness, dizziness, shock and coma. If your pet experiences this, remove them from the hot area immediately and wet them thoroughly with cool, not cold, water. Using cold water can actually cause the temperature to decrease too low and can create complications. Once you get the temperature down to 103 degrees then dry your pet thoroughly and take them to your veterinarian. Remember, acting quickly and calmly in these situations can save your beloved pet’s life.