HEATSTROKE IN BRACHYCEPHALIC DOGS AFTER A PETSHOP VISIT - REPORT OF TWO CASES

Abstract

Heatstroke is a fatal syndrome that develops in cases where there is an increase in body temperature when extrinsic and intrinsic heat production exceeds the ability to dissipate heat. Brachycephalic dogs are more likely to develop heatstroke. However, lack of adequate acclimatization, and exposure to a hot environment, especially with high humidity, are considered predisposing factors. Heatstroke is an increase in body temperature above 41ºC. It is associated with dysfunctions of the Central Nervous System (CNS) and the production of inflammatory mediators that initiate and modulate the acute phase response, activating the endothelium, which culminates in coagulation and fibrinolysis, similar to what occurs in sepsis. This paper describes two cases of heatstroke in brachycephalic dogs treated at a pet shop. After the consultations, the animals were panting, and one of them had an increase in body temperature (42.9ºC). Both died and were referred to the Veterinary Pathology Service (SPV) of UNESP-FCAV, Campus of Jaboticabal-SP. During the necroscopic examination, the main findings were hemorrhage in subcutaneous tissue, frothy fluid in the trachea and lungs, and diffusely reddened parenchymal organs. Microscopic examination showed pulmonary edema, congestion, and hemorrhage in multiple organs. The cause of death was a cardiorespiratory shock. This paper shows the importance of strict temperature control environments in pet shops and animal transport vehicles, especially when it comes to brachycephalic dogs, to avoid the development of Heatstroke, a fatal syndrome. KEYWORDS: Heat, hyperthermia, cardiorespiratory shock, stress.