It is important the Frenchie owners learn to recognise the signs of heat stroke in their dogs, as immediate treatment is needed. French bulldogs as with most short-faced breeds do not tolerate high temperatures as well as we humans do. Dogs do not sweat; they depend on rapid breathing to keep cool. By exchanging warm air breathed out with the cooler air breathed in they regulate their body temperature. It is obvious then, that if the air temperature is close to body temperature cooling by rapid breathing is not an efficient process. Signs of Heat Stroke. Heat stroke begins with rapid, frantic, noisy breathing. The tongue and inside of the mouth are bright red. The dog’s saliva is thick and hangs in drools. The dog frequently vomits. Heat stroke is evident by the typical appearance of the dog; it can be confirmed by taking its temperature. If these signs are unheeded the dog becomes unsteady and staggers. It may have diarrhoea and it will become progressively weaker, coma and death can ensue. All This Can Happen In The Space of A Few Minutes.
Treatment.
Emergency measures must be taken at once if you suspect that your dog is overheating. Mild cases respond to being moved into cooler surroundings, if the dogs temperature is over 104 degrees or it is unsteady on it's feet; the dog should be cooled down by emersion of its body in cool water or by being hosed down with a garden hose. Heat stroke can be accompanied by swelling of the throat, (the dog will 'roar' when breathing) this aggravates the problem by reducing airflow. This requires veterinary treatment immediately; the vet will usually administer a cortisone injection to reduce the swelling.
Prevention
Do not expose you Frenchie to prolonged heat. Restrict exercise during the heat of the day.
Provide shade and water for your dog if you are outside, even in the garden.
Never
leave your dog in a car, do not let your Frenchie get over excited or stressed during hot weather. Do not travel long distances with you Frenchie without making adequate provision in case of emergency i.e. plenty of cold water, suitable shade and free flow of air through the car.