Hypothermia
Hypothermia is defined as the point at which the core body temperature falls below 37°C.
Hypothermia will occur if your dog gets too cold and is most common if they have been in freezing water, even for a few minutes.
Sick, very old and very young dogs are less able to regulate their own body temperature and therefore more likely to get hypothermia. These dogs may need a coat or sweater when taken out for walks in the winter.
Extreme hypothermia is very serious and can be fatal.
Signs and symptoms
- Weak pulse and slow heart rate
- Dilated pupils
- Mucous membranes become pale or blue tinged.
- They may be shivery and then stiff with cold.
- As hypothermia develops further, they become confused, disorientated and then may lose consciousness – severe hypothermia kills.
Treatment
- Remove them from the cold. Wrap in warm dry clothing, a towel or a blanket.
- Wrap up warm in coats and blankets, and increase the room temperature if possible
- Use your body warmth and wrapped warm water bottles to gently warm them through
- A foil blanket can be helpful
- Get veterinary advice quickly
- If they lose consciousness and are breathing – put in the recovery position,
- If they stop breathing – do CPR
NOTE – if they are very cold, keep them as still as possible as the extreme cold can affect their heart and any swift movement can cause a cardiac arrest.
Rock Salt
Rock salt can cause sores it get stuck between toes and under nails. If necessary rinse any grit out with water or if it becomes a problem look into buying some dog boots.
Cold Dogs
If your dog is getting worryingly cold when outside during low temperature, consider getting it a jacket or coat. If it’s still an issue look into alternative ways of exercising.
Possible alternatives:
- Tug of war – using a normal rope or purpose-made toy. Be aware of your dog’s size and power before deciding to play though, don’t let it get out of hand.
- Treasure hunt – make a game out of hiding their food, build obstacle courses using boxes, sturdy containers, stools etc.
- Tie toys to the end of a stick and encourage them to try and catch them while you move it.
- Discipline them – teach them ‘stay’, ‘come’, ‘roll over’, ‘paw’ etc.
First Aid for Pets provides this information for guidance and it is not in any way a substitute for veterinary advice. The author does not accept any liability or responsibility for any inaccuracies or for any mistreatment or misdiagnosis of any person or animal, however caused. It is strongly advised that you attend a practical First Aid for Pets course or take our online course to understand what to do in a medical emergency.