22/05/2026
Dogs can so easily overheat in warmer temperatures, much more than we would expect. Please be so careful this weekend with them and follow the advice from The Dog First Aid Co. Ltd ❤️
🌞 It's getting HOT out there! Could you recognise heat-related illness in your dog?
🚨 Over 50% of dogs with severe heatstroke die.
✅ When recognised and treated early, around 90% survive.
Recognising the signs is important, but knowing what to do next could save your dog's life.
💦 If you suspect heat-related illness:
✔️ Move your dog immediately to a cool, shaded area
✔️ Start cooling straight away using cold water
✔️ Continuously wet the dog with a hose, shower, buckets, watering can or similar
✔️ Create air movement with a fan, air conditioning, open windows or doors
✔️ Offer small amounts of water if your dog is conscious and able to drink
✔️ Contact your vet immediately and continue cooling while travelling
🌡️ When should you stop cooling?
If you are able to monitor your dog's temperature, continue cooling until it reaches 39°C (102.2°F), then stop active cooling and continue transport to your vet.
⚠️ Continuing active cooling after your dog's temperature has returned to normal can result in rebound hypothermia, where body temperature falls too low.
❌ Do not delay cooling while searching for "tepid" water
❌ Do not wrap your dog in wet towels or blankets, as they can trap heat
❌ Do not wait to see if your dog improves before seeking veterinary advice
🔬 For many years, dog owners were advised to use tepid water due to concerns that cold water could cause vasoconstriction or slow cooling. Current evidence has debunked this myth.
Research now supports "Cool First, Transport Second" and shows that cold water is the most effective way to cool a dog with heat-related illness.
💧 Any water is better than no water, provided it is cooler than your dog's body temperature. However, where available, cold water is preferred and should not be avoided.
🌡️ A normal dog's temperature is approximately 38.0–39.0°C (100.5–102.5°F).
🐾 Early recognition and rapid cooling save lives. Familiarise yourself with the signs and act quickly if you suspect heat-related illness.
✨ Research credit: Heatstroke in Dogs Project (VetCompass UK)
