Shih Tzu Heat Stroke is a dangerous condition and may be more common than you think, especially if you live in a warm climate.
Shih Tzu, like all dogs with short flat noses (brachycephalic), may have difficulty breathing and may overheat, especially in hot weather.
Shih Tzu dogs tolerate cold weather far better than warm days.
Pets with the tiniest nostrils have the greatest problems during hot weather. These are the dogs with pinched nostrils or stenotic nares.
This is a medical emergency and needs immediate attention.
The Cause is extreme exposure to excessive heat and the signs may include:
This is a life-threatening emergency and first aid must be administered immediately.
Your dog will be re-hydrated with fluids and monitored for shock. The vet may also provide additional oxygen for him.
The vet may need to low the temperature, and if so, a cold-water enema may be given. Special diets may be recommended, or IV fluids given until the dog can eat solid foods.
Most dogs recover, but they may be left more susceptible to heat stroke later on. Inpatient hospitalization is often indicated.
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All over the world, we are facing increasingly hotter temperatures due to global warming, and keeping your Shih Tzu outdoors or in a hot car is considered cruel and unusual punishment.
Shih Tzu dogs should never be kept outdoors in the summer for any length of time. Keeping a dog confined in a hot car during the summer is a sure death sentence. Your dog needs extra water in the hot weather and if you must be out with your dog during extreme temperatures, find a shady spot for your dog to rest.
Jogging or running is not a good idea in hot weather and can lead to heat stroke. When indoors, use air conditioning for this breed, but in lieu of that, use fans to help keep your pouch and you comfortable. Sometimes just wetting him down will help keep him cool.
A kiddie size pool is a welcome relief from the heat for some Shih Tzu dogs, although not all will enjoy such activities. Add about one to two inches of water to the pool, and supervise any swimming activities. Some Shih Tzu love to crunch on ice cubes that have been added to their water bowl.
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NEVER leave your dog in a hot car, even if the windows are partially opened.
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