KEY POINTS IN THE THERAPEUTIC MANAGEMENT OF HEAT STROKE SYNDROME MANIFESTED BY BRACHYCEPHALIC DOGS

Heat stroke syndrome in dogs occurs particularly during the summer months and rapidly progresses to a life-threatening emergency, clinically manifested through hyperthermia, dysfunctions of the central nervous system, the activation of the inflammatory mechanisms, hemostasis disorders and initiation of the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). The pathological cascade can evolve through denturation of proteins, inactivation of enzymes, destruction of the cell membrane, alteration of the mitochondrial function to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), acute kidney injury (AKI), disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) or multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). It is a high risk condition for brachycephalic dogs, especially when associated with obstructive airway syndrome, anatomical abnormalities and a decreased capacity to lose heat through panting.