The great heat of this summer 2022 has hit everyone, including pets.
Dogs in particular suffer from it and are prone to so-called
'heat stroke
', which can be a real cause of death. as a mortality index): an acute emergency characterized by an increase in body temperature above 41 ° C which occurs more frequently during the summer with heat and torrid climates.
Study author Emily Hall, a veterinarian at the UK's School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, told The Standard that heatstroke is a potentially fatal condition and is expected to become even more common in the UK. as temperatures continue to rise.
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But what are the factors that determine this serious danger: new research published in the Vet Times has shown that excessive exercise in the summer represents 74% of cases, 13% is attributable to mere unbearable heat and 5% to locked dogs in a vehicle.
But that's not all: more than a third of owners of brachycephalic dogs, who suffer the most from this condition due to the enlarged skull and a particular conformation of the respiratory system, reported that thermoregulation is a problem for their pet. In fact, English bulldogs are 14 times more likely to suffer from heat-related diseases than Labradors, while French bulldogs are 6 times more likely.
There is also a ranking of the
10 most prone dog breeds
to "heat stroke" and was published by Bloomberg Green: in first place there is the Chow Chow, followed by English Bulldog and French Bulldog, followed by Dogue de Bordeaux, Greyhound, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Carlino, English Springer Spaniel , Golden Retriever and Boxer.
Fortunately, it doesn't happen that often, but being abandoned in a car in the sun could be fatal for animals: in this regard, PETA has been monitoring the number of dogs on its website since 2018 that have not made it due to this serious man's forgetfulness. and the number of rescues: in 2021 there are already 28 confirmed deaths and 96 rescues.
How can we therefore limit the risk factors?
In addition to the 10 valuable advice from veterinary experts for prevention and first aid listed below, technological innovation and fashion also come to the rescue of 4-legged friends: from an idea of the startup to the female Bullfit Fashion (bullfitfashion.com ) in fact, B-cool was born, a line of advanced
intelligent refrigerating garments
, which are activated only when dogs actually need to be refreshed, a true innovation made in Italy: “Heatstroke is no joke.
Especially for English and French bulldogs, brachycephalic breeds that are particularly affected by the heat, and more easily incur hyperventilation - explains Emi Nava, founder of Bullfit Fashion - Precisely for this reason we have created the B-Cool line: in the garment a Membrane resulting from an American patent is activated when it detects the increase in the dog's body temperature.
It should be wet before being worn, but the dog will feel a dry sensation, with an active effect for up to 10 hours.
The brachycephalics need to be covered to avoid sudden changes in temperature, scorching heat,
humidity and all those situations that could favor excessive heating and the onset of diseases of the respiratory system.
They must absolutely be protected from the dreaded heat stroke: we are really proud to offer a valid solution also used by leading veterinarians ".
The authoritative opinion of dr.
Paolo Favole of the Neurovet clinic in Legnano (MI), the first neurological veterinary clinic in Italy: “Brachycephalic dogs such as French bulldogs, English bulldogs and pugs are very delicate and sensitive patients.
Upon awakening from anesthesia they can risk heat stroke: in B-Cool I found a valid support that helps us to prevent it and that we are using with satisfaction.
Finally, here are the 10 tips from veterinary experts to prevent heatstroke and act correctly when it occurs:
1. NEVER LEAVE A DOG IN A CAR WITH HOT TEMPERATURES
In summer, the temperature in the passenger compartment can reach lethal levels even with the window open.
2. NO EFFORTS AND WALKS IN THE HOTTEST HOURS
Even a simple walk can be dangerous for dogs, best to go out in the morning and in the evening.
3. LEARN TO RESPECT THE CANINE RHYTHMS
When it is very hot the dog may eat less, better to move the meals to cooler hours.
4. REFRESHING THEM IS FUNDAMENTAL
Refreshing B-Cool clothing, ice cube, game in the freezer: here are some solutions.
5. NO BEACH OR SOLLEONE EXCURSIONS
Dogs do not have sweat glands, to dissipate excessive heat they pant: better to avoid.
6. WATER AND SHADOW, A WINNING COMBINATION
Shaded areas for the hottest hours and access to fresh water are key.
7. THE IMPORTANT IS TO KNOW HOW TO RECOGNIZE THE PROBLEM
Discomfort, restlessness, increased respiratory and heart rate: these are the alarm bells.
8. IN THE EVENT OF HEAT STRIKE SUFFERED BY THE VETERINARY
If the dog has the typical symptoms it is necessary to run to the vet with no ifs and buts.
9. PALLIATIVE ACTIONS: FRESH WATER AT WILL
At the first signs it is good to cool the dog especially on the neck, in the armpits and in the groin.
10. SHAPING IS A MISTAKE
Canine hair serves to protect them from the cold, but also from heat and sunlight: never shear them.
