26/05/2026
If you suspect your dog has heatstroke, you must act fast, but safely:Move to a cool area: Bring them indoors to an air-conditioned room or find a shaded, breezy spot outside.Apply water: Pour cool (not ice-cold) water over their body. Do not use ice or cover them in wet towels, as this traps heat and can cause dangerous shivering or blood vessel constriction.Encourage air flow: Place a fan on your dog to maximize evaporative cooling.Offer small drinks: Provide fresh, room-temperature water. Do not force them to drink, as this can cause them to choke or inhale water.Contact a Vet: Even if your dog seems to recover, heatstroke can cause internal organ damage that needs immediate medical assessment. Take them to an emergency vet clinic. You can find your nearest clinic using the RCVS Find a Vet register or your local practice.
