25/05/2026
WET THEN VET!
The ‘Wet / Cool First, Transport Second’ advice is crucial, as prolonged elevated body temperature can lead to severe organ damage and even death. Heatstroke has a high mortality rate so immediate cooling significantly improves the chances of recovery.
If you believe your dog is experiencing heatstroke please follow the latest veterinary advice. The current best practice, as endorsed by the Royal Veterinary College, is to:
💙 STOP: Cease all activity and remove the dog from the hot environment. Start communication with your vet immediately so they can be prepped ready for your arrival. Have someone cool the car ready for transport while you cool your dog.
💙 WET & COOL: Any cool tap water will be a suitable temperature just make sure you run the hot water out of the hose first if you’re outside. SOAK your dog in water by pouring cool water all over their body. Having a fan blowing over them will also help dissipate the heat. If possible and safe to do so, submerge their body as much as possible; e.g. in the shallow edge of a lake/river, bath, paddling pool.
💙VET: Get to the Vets as quickly as possible.
💙Offer them only small amounts of cool water (if they want it). Gulping large amounts may cause bloat.