Fever in Dogs: Can Excessive Heat Lead to a Fever?

When your dog is exposed to high temperatures, you might wonder whether it can lead to fever. While fever in dogs is typically a sign of infection or inflammation, many pet owners are concerned about the impact of heat exposure. Let’s dive into the details of fever in dogs and how heat may play a role. 

What Is A Fever in Dogs?

Fever in dogs occurs when their body temperature rises above the normal range, typically between 101°F and 102.5°F. When the temperature climbs above this range, it indicates that your dog’s immune system is responding to some sort of trigger, like an infection, inflammation, or in some cases, external factors. While humans can develop fevers due to heat exposure, dogs’ responses to heat can be slightly different, often leading to heat exhaustion or heatstroke instead of a traditional fever. 

What Are Common Causes of Fever in Dogs?

• Fever in dogs is most often caused by infections (bacterial, viral, or fungal), inflammation due to injuries, or reactions to medications. 
• Other causes can include the ingestion of toxic substances, immune system disorders, or underlying illnesses such as cancer. Dogs may develop a fever as part of their body’s natural response to fighting off these conditions.
• In most cases, fever in dogs is not directly related to external heat but rather to the body’s internal systems working to eliminate a threat. However, environmental factors like heat can exacerbate existing conditions or lead to symptoms that mimic fever, such as lethargy and panting.

How Excessive Heat Affects Dogs

While excessive heat may not directly cause fever in dogs, it can lead to serious health problems like heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which can be just as dangerous. Dogs do not sweat the way humans do, so they are much more prone to overheating. Certain factors such as breed, can make dogs more vulnerable to overheating. For example, short faced breeds are much more susceptible to heatstroke due to their shortened airway. When a dog is exposed to high temperatures for too long, it can cause their body temperature to rise rapidly, leading to life-threatening conditions.

Heat Exhaustion vs. Heatstroke

It’s important to differentiate between heat exhaustion and heatstroke, both of which can affect dogs exposed to high temperatures.

• Heat exhaustion occurs when a dog’s body is struggling to regulate its temperature but hasn’t yet reached a critical level. Signs of heat exhaustion include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, and confusion.
• Heatstroke is much more severe and happens when a dog’s body temperature rises above 105°F. At this stage, immediate veterinary care is needed. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, collapse, and in some cases, seizures.

Neither of these conditions is technically a fever, but both involve elevated body temperatures that can be dangerous. Heatstroke can cause damage to internal organs and, if left untreated, can be fatal.

Does Your Dog Have a Fever?

It can be difficult to tell if your dog has a fever, especially because the symptoms of fever in dogs are similar to those of many other conditions. Common signs include:

• Lethargy or lack of energy
• Shivering or trembling
• Loss of appetite
• Coughing or nasal discharge
• Warm ears or nose

If your dog’s temperature exceeds 102.5°F, it’s time to contact your veterinarian for further evaluation. However, if you notice a combination of these symptoms and your dog has been exposed to high temperatures, heat exhaustion or heatstroke could be a more likely cause.

When Should Your Pet Receive Veterinary Care?

If you suspect your dog has a fever or is suffering from heat exhaustion or heatstroke, seek veterinary care promptly. High body temperatures in dogs can lead to irreversible damage if not treated quickly. Your veterinarian may perform a physical examination and run diagnostic tests to determine the cause of the fever or heat-related symptoms. Treatments vary depending on the underlying issue but often include intravenous fluids, medications to lower fever, and supportive care to help stabilize your dog.

What to Expect at the Animal Ark Animal Hospital

When you bring your dog to your veterinarian for fever or heat-related symptoms, your vet will likely start with a full physical exam and take your dog’s temperature. Depending on the findings, the vet may recommend blood work or other diagnostic tests to pinpoint the cause of your dog’s elevated temperature. Treatment will depend on the severity of your dog’s condition and the underlying cause. For mild cases of fever, your vet may suggest rest and hydration. However, in more severe cases of heatstroke or fever caused by infection, hospitalization may be necessary to provide the appropriate level of care.

How to Prevent Heat-Related Illnesses in Dogs

Limiting your dog’s exposure to high temperatures, providing plenty of water, and making sure they have access to shade can all help reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Avoid vigorous exercise during the hottest parts of the day, as this can raise your dog’s body temperature dangerously high.

Here are a few tips to help keep your dog safe during hot weather:

• Provide shade and water: Always ensure your dog has access to fresh water and a cool, shaded area when outdoors.
• Limit exercise: Avoid walking your dog during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Use cooling aids: Cooling mats or vests can help keep your dog’s body temperature down.
• Monitor closely: Keep an eye out for signs of overheating, such as excessive panting or lethargy, and bring your dog indoors if they appear uncomfortable.

If you’re ever in doubt about your dog’s condition, it’s better to call your veterinarian at Animal Ark Animal Hospital to discuss any concerns.

What Should You Do If Your Dog Has a Fever or Heat-Related Symptoms?

If you believe your dog has a fever or is showing signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke, call Animal Ark Animal Hospital right away. Our team can provide the care your dog needs to get back to feeling their best. Staying alert to the signs of fever and heat-related illnesses in your dog can make all the difference in their health and well-being. Contact us at (615) 778-0880 for more information.