Heatstroke in the dog: a polysystemic disorder.

The early stages of heatstroke in 3 dogs were characterized by hyperthermia, hyperpnea, tachycardia, depression, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Laboratory signs of hepatocyte degeneration and necrosis were detected. Clinical and laboratory changes characteristic of acute primary renal failure developed several days after overheating. After symptomatic and supportive therapy, 2 of the dogs regained a sufficient degree of renal function to cause remission of signs of renal failure.