Agency

A relationship created when one person, the “principal,” delegates to another, the “agent,” the right to act on the principal’s behalf in business transactions and to exercise some degree of discretion while so acting. An agency gives rise to a fiduciary relationship and imposes on the agent, as the fiduciary of the principal, certain duties, obligations and high standards of good faith and loyalty.

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In people, heat stroke often begins with confusion or unusual behavior. A person may seem disoriented, irritable, dizzy, or unable to respond clearly to questions. Their skin may feel extremely hot and appear flushed or red. Although sweating is common in early heat illness, severe heat stroke can actually cause the skin to become dry as the body’s cooling system fails. Additional symptoms include a rapid heartbeat, throbbing headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, and difficulty walking or standing. In advanced cases, the person may collapse, lose consciousness, or experience seizures.

Certain groups are more vulnerable, including older adults, infants, outdoor workers, athletes, and individuals with chronic health conditions. However, heat stroke can affect anyone exposed to extreme temperatures or prolonged physical exertion.

Pets are also at significant risk because they cannot regulate body temperature as efficiently as humans. Dogs and cats primarily cool themselves through panting and limited sweating through their paw pads. When overheating occurs, it can escalate quickly.

A pet experiencing heat stroke may pant heavily, drool excessively, or appear restless and agitated. Their gums and tongue may turn bright red or even bluish in severe cases. As the condition worsens, they may become weak, unsteady, vomit, collapse, or become unresponsive. Short-nosed breeds such as bulldogs and pugs are especially vulnerable due to restricted airflow.

One of the most dangerous misconceptions is assuming a cracked window is enough protection in a parked car, as we mentioned in last month's article. Interior temperatures can rise to lethal levels within minutes, even on moderately warm days.

The First 60 Seconds Can Save a Life

In a suspected heat stroke emergency, the first minute is critical. Immediately move the person or animal out of direct heat and into shade, air conditioning, or the coolest available environment. While doing this, contact emergency services or a veterinarian if symptoms are severe, such as confusion, collapse, seizures, or unconsciousness. At the same time, begin gentle cooling measures - remove excess clothing in people, and lightly wet an animal’s fur with cool water. Focus on areas where heat builds quickly, such as the neck, armpits, belly, and groin regions, and use airflow (if possible) to support cooling.

From there, continue with structured response steps:

• Move them to a cooler environment immediately. Get the person or pet out of direct heat and into shade or air conditioning as quickly as possible.
• Begin gradual cooling efforts. Use cool (not ice-cold) water, wet cloths, or misting to lower body temperature safely. Fans can help increase evaporation and cooling.
• Offer small amounts of cool water if conscious. Only provide fluids if the person or animal is alert and able to swallow safely. Never force drinking.
• Monitor breathing and responsiveness closely. Watch for worsening symptoms like seizures, vomiting, fainting, or loss of consciousness.
• Continue cooling during transport for medical care. Do not stop cooling efforts even if the person or pet appears to improve.

Medical professionals and veterinarians should always be involved when heat stroke is suspected, especially if symptoms are severe or involve neurological changes. Even if someone appears to recover, internal damage can continue without treatment, and complications such as dehydration, kidney strain, or organ stress may still require medical intervention.

Extreme heat is not just uncomfortable - it can become life-threatening very quickly. Knowing how to recognize heat stroke and act immediately can protect both human and animal lives when every second counts. Below, you’ll find information to help you identify what stage of heat-related sickness the person or animal is most likely experiencing.

Overheating (early heat stress)

• Person or animal is clearly uncomfortable in the heat but still alert and responsive
• Heavy sweating in people; excessive panting in pets
• Thirst and mild dehydration (dry mouth, wanting water)
• Skin may feel warm but not dangerously hot
• Mild fatigue, slowing down, or seeking shade/air conditioning
• No confusion or neurological symptoms

Heat exhaustion (moderate, serious warning stage)

• Noticeable weakness, fatigue, or inability to continue activity
• Heavy sweating (often), pale or clammy skin in people
• Dizziness, headache, nausea, or vomiting
• Rapid heartbeat and rapid breathing
• Muscle cramps or shakiness
• Pets may appear anxious, restless, or unable to settle
• Still conscious and generally aware, but clearly “not okay”
• Symptoms improve with rest, cooling, and hydration—but still requires attention

Heat stroke (medical emergency)

In humans:

• Confusion, disorientation, unusual behavior, or collapse
• Loss of coordination, inability to walk properly, or unresponsiveness
• Very hot skin (may be dry or only slightly sweaty in people)

In pets:

• Intense panting, drooling, bright red or bluish gums/tongue
• Seizures, fainting, or loss of consciousness
• Vomiting or severe distress
• Rapid deterioration—does not improve without urgent cooling and emergency care
• Life-threatening; requires immediate medical or veterinary intervention

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