Hypothermia and Frostbite in Dogs

With the continued chilly weather, we thought it appropriate to discuss some of the dangers of both hypothermia and frostbite in dogs.
Hypothermia is a term used to describe a body temperature that is below normal, and the most common cause is prolonged exposure to cold environmental temperatures. In addition to exposure, certain medical conditions such as hypothyroidism may be a factor in the body's inability to maintain adequate temperature.

Normal body temperature in dogs is 100.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Signs of hypothermia include but are not limited to:

• Depression
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Shivering
• Muscle stiffness
• Low heart and respiratory rates
• Stupor
• Difficulty breathing
• Fixed and dilated pupils
• Coma

Mild hypothermia can be treated with blankets and insulation, while more severe cases need to be treated aggressively with core warming techniques and IV fluids. If you are suspicious your dog may be suffering from hypothermia, use blankets and insulation to start the warming process and contact your veterination immediately.

Frostbite is injury to the tissues that occurs when an animal is exposed to freezing temperatures accompanied by high winds. Areas which are primarily affected are the feet, tail and tips of the ears and unfortunately, frostbite injury is often not apparent until several days later. Watch for:

• Skin discoloration on the ears, tail and toes
• Pain and swelling
• Blisters
• Sloughing of the skin
• Skin ulcers

Remove your dog from the freezing environment and slowly re-warm the tissues. Bandages may be applied....DO NOT PLACE THE ANIMAL IN HOT WATER. Do not rub the affected areas as this can cause damage to the tissues. After initial treatment, contact your veterinarian for follow up care.

(Source: Dr. Bari Spielman and Dr. Dawn Ruben, http://www.petplace.com/)