If a dog has a temperature of 35, what should I do? - briefly
If your dog's temperature is 35°C (95°F), which is slightly above normal (37-39°C or 98.6-102.2°F), monitor them closely and consult a veterinarian if the temperature persists or rises further.
If a dog has a temperature of 35, what should I do? - in detail
If your dog's temperature is 35 degrees Celsius (95 degrees Fahrenheit), it is crucial to take immediate action as this indicates a severe and potentially life-threatening condition known as hyperthermia or heatstroke. Here are the steps you should follow:
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Move Your Dog to a Cooler Environment: If possible, move your dog indoors or to a shaded area where the temperature is significantly lower. Avoid placing them in an air-conditioned room too quickly, as this can cause their body temperature to drop too rapidly.
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Lower the Body Temperature Gradually: Begin cooling your dog by applying cool (not cold) water to their fur, ears, and paws. You can use a spray bottle, wet towels, or even run cool water over them. Avoid using ice-cold water as it can shock their system and cause blood vessels to constrict, hindering the cooling process.
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Promote Evaporation: After applying water, place your dog in front of a fan to help evaporate the moisture from their fur. This evaporation will further cool their body temperature. Ensure the fan is not too strong, as it can cause discomfort.
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Offer Water: Allow your dog to drink small amounts of water at a time. Do not force them to drink, but make sure they have access to fresh, cool water. Avoid giving them ice or extremely cold water, which could cause stomach upset.
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Monitor Temperature: Use a rectal thermometer to regularly check your dog's temperature. Continue the cooling process until their temperature drops to around 39 degrees Celsius (102 degrees Fahrenheit). At this point, stop active cooling to prevent the temperature from dropping too low.
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Seek Veterinary Care Immediately: Even if your dog's temperature has returned to a safer range, it is essential to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Hyperthermia can cause serious health issues, including organ failure and brain damage. Your veterinarian can provide additional treatment and monitoring to ensure your dog recovers fully.
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Prevent Future Incidents: Learn from this experience to prevent future episodes of hyperthermia. Ensure your dog has access to shade and plenty of water during hot weather. Avoid exercising your dog in the heat of the day, and consider taking walks early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler.
By following these steps, you can help your dog overcome hyperthermia and reduce the risk of long-term health problems. Always remember that prevention is key to keeping your pet safe from heat-related issues.