25/06/2026
We have unfortunately seen several heat stroke cases this week. It is crucial not to walk your dogs in this heat and be careful to keep your dogs cool even indoors - regularly hosing or bathing dogs in cool water or using fans can help. We hope everyone is enjoying the warm weather and staying safe ☀️
What to do if you think your pet is suffering with heatstroke… 🥵 one of the biggest myths is that you should not use cold water to cool your pet down, to avoid complications like hypothermic overshoot, peripheral vasoconstriction hindering a cooling response, and cardiogenic shock... but this isn’t true!
If you think your pet is suffering from heatstroke you should:
💧Get someone to call the local veterinary practice and tell them you’re going to travel down with a heat stroke patient
💧Pour, hose or if possible immerse the pet in very cold water (this should obviously be done under constant supervision, ensuring the head is fully above water and immersion should not be attempted if the animal is too large, or you are unable to do so without hurting yourself)
💧NB: If using a hose pipe, make sure it has run through until cold, as they can often contain water that is extremely hot in the tubing initially
💧Do not drape in towels and leave them in situ. Keep the cold water flowing.
💧Move to a cool, shaded area
💧Prepare to transport to vets in a cold, air conditioned car
And don’t forget the best treatment for heatstroke is prevention! It is better to avoid walking your dog at all if you think it is too hot for them ☀️🐶
