A
dog's body typically has a narrow operating range for its internal
temperature of between 100 Degrees F and 102.5 Degrees F. When a dog's
body temperature rises above the upper limits of its average
temperature range, several things happen. For example, the blood
temperature rises. The brain then detects this rise in temperature and
sends more blood towards the skin to help it cool. Respiration also
increases in an attempt to draw cooler air into lungs and blood. You
will recognize increased respiration as panting. Now consider what
happens when a dog is placed in a hot, humid environment. The air being
inhaled is hot and, therefore, diffusion of body heat through the skin
and respiration is not very effective. With this, chances of a dog
overheating increase.
