Top 5 Health Conditions That May Contribute to Heatstroke in Your Pet

AUSTIN, Texas – June 5, 2024 – With temperatures rising in many parts of the country, Thrive Pet Healthcare, a leading veterinary service community with more than 380 locations across 37 states, stresses the importance of regular veterinary checkups for pets, as certain illnesses and chronic conditions can make them more susceptible to heat-related emergencies.

"Even when it’s 70 degrees outside, your pet can experience a heat-related emergency, particularly if they have an underlying health condition that puts them at greater risk for heatstroke," says Dr. Kelly Cairns, Vice President of Medical Excellence and Education at Thrive Pet Healthcare. "Regular checkups with your veterinarian can help identify any potential health issues that may affect your pet’s ability to withstand higher temperatures."

The following underlying health conditions in pets may cause them to be more susceptible to heatstroke or other heat-related emergencies:

Pets with heart disease may have difficulty regulating their body temperature because they are not circulating blood efficiently. This can lead to rapid overheating and heatstroke due to the increased strain on their cardiovascular system.

Short-nosed breeds often have respiratory issues, which can limit their ability to pant effectively. Panting is the primary way pets keep cool. When their breathing is impaired, they are unable to cool themselves, increasing their risk of heatstroke.

When a pet is overweight, they have a thicker layer of fat that insulates their body and traps heat. This makes it more difficult for them to cool down, causing their body temperature to increase more rapidly in higher temperatures.

Pets with diabetes may experience dehydration and reduced blood flow, which makes it more difficult for them to regulate their body temperature. Also, high blood sugar levels can affect their overall health, making them more vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat.

Very young and senior pets may have difficulty regulating body temperature. Puppies and kittens are not fully developed, and senior pets may have weakened systems due to aging. Both age groups could have difficulty handling heat stress, making them more susceptible to heatstroke.

In severe cases, seizures, bloody diarrhea, frequent vomiting, unresponsiveness, and even death may occur.

“Heat related emergencies can sneak up on pet owners,” said Dr. Cairns. “By the time the warning signs become obvious, it’s a life-threatening situation. Don’t wait. Take your pet to a veterinarian immediately for treatment to prevent organ shutdown and other severe complications.”

Thrive Pet Healthcare understands the value of investing in your pet’s well-being as well as saving money by preventing costly interventions for advanced illnesses. To make pet healthcare more accessible and affordable, Thrive Pet Healthcare offers the Thrive Plus membership program at 185 of their primary care hospitals across the country.

With a Thrive Plus membership, your pet receives unlimited free exams, $5 nail trims, and a 10% discount on services like diagnostic testing, dental cleanings, and spay/neuter. On average, Thrive Plus members save $300 per year per pet, with savings varying by usage and location. Thrive Plus ensures that pet owners receive the comprehensive support their beloved companions deserve.

To locate a Thrive Pet Healthcare location near you, including primary, specialty, urgent, and emergency veterinary care services, as well as participating Thrive Plus membership hospitals, visit www.ThrivePetCare.com.

About Thrive Pet Healthcare:

Thrive Pet Healthcare is a leading veterinary service community that uniquely delivers a continuum of care to pet families and services to veterinary hospitals. With an industry-first membership program and more than 380 acute, primary, and specialty providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare offers personalized, accessible care through every stage of a pet’s life and health. The veterinarian-founded organization provides premier benefits for practice staff while elevating privately held veterinary hospitals with innovative service and technology solutions. By focusing on the needs and aspirations of veterinary care providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare is supporting the well-being of the industry and raising the national bar for veterinary excellence. To learn more about Thrive Pet Healthcare, please visit www.thrivepetcare.com.