23/06/2026
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Heat Stroke Truths!
We are headed into a hot week, which means the usual posts containing dangerous myths about heat stroke are going to appear; so here is the truth;
💦 Cold water is FINE
It is fine for them to play in and it is absolutely fine to cool them down if you are worried they are too hot.
It does NOT need to be 'tepid' and it will NOT send them into shock.
If a dog is overheating, they need to be cooled down as fast as possible, especially if their body temperature is rising into the danger zone.
Cold water is the best way to do this. Any temperature lower than the dog will help but the colder the better for a fast reduction.
💦 Get them as wet as possible!
Always remember the phrase 'Wet then Vet' if you are worried they have heat stroke.
Soak them to the skin with the coldest water you can find and keep them in a breeze (roll down the car windows) while you travel to veterinary care.
You should NOT only wet their paws and bellies, soak the whole dog.
🧊 Ice cubes and iced treats are a great idea!
They have the same effect on dogs as they do on us! They are a lovely, cooling treat on a sunny day and giving frozen treats on a Kong or Lick-e-mat will help keep your pet entertained but quiet.
🐕 Thick double coats do NOT keep them cool
If you have a thick coated dog, their fur does not have a cooling quality. The undercoat traps their body heat and makes it harder for it to escape, doubly so when the outside temperatures rise and triply so if they start to exercise.
If you have a thick coated dog, you need to be extra careful in this warmer weather and put every measure in place to keep them safe, especially if they are elderly, flat faced or overweight.
For more great information and the latest evidence and science of heat stroke, I can recommend the following pages;
Hot Dogs - canine heatstroke education for dog owners
Veterinary Tactical Group
Dr David Marlin
