10/07/2025
A long but VERY important read……
With the weather turning warmer, we as dog owners need to be aware of the issues our canine friends can face during the summer months.
Heatstroke (also known as heat exhaustion, sunstroke or hyperthermia) is a life-threating condition caused when a dogs body over heats. Dogs are not as good as us at regulating their body temperature and can only sweat from areas that aren’t covered in fur, such has their paws. Panting is the main way they lower their body temperature but sometimes this just isn’t effective enough, causing a dangerously high increase in body temperature.
Heatstroke is caused by a dog’s environment being too hot, by their muscles generating too much heat from exercise, or a mix of the two. Dogs are more at risk of developing heatstroke if they are without water, a sufficient airflow or shade. There are some reasons a particular dog may be more at risk of heatstroke -
• Brachycephalic breeds (such as pugs, bulldogs)
• long haired and thick coated breeds
• senior dogs
• more energetic breeds
• over weight dogs and breeds over 50kg
• other health conditions such as respiratory disease
A dogs body temperature usually reads around 37-39°C, but if it starts to increase, particularly above 41°C, they can show signs of heatstroke. The hotter the dog becomes and the longer their temperature stays high, the more damaged their tissue and organs become. Signs of heatstroke to look out for include:
• Excessive panting (even when resting)
• Breathing difficulties
• Tiredness and lethargy
• Drooling/foaming at the mouth
• Confusion
• Change in gum colour
• Vomiting and/or diarrhoea
• Collapse
• Fitting
On hot days there are some simple steps that can be taken to prevent your dog getting heatstroke.
• Always make sure they have access to plenty of fresh cool drinking water.
• NEVER leave a dog in a vehicle, conservatory or poorly ventilated room.
• When exercising your dog pick the cooler times of day to walk them. Early morning and late at night when the sun is weaker and the ground has started to cool is ideal.
• Choose shady areas and places with access to water if your dog likes to swim.
• Do not allow your dog to exercise excessively when at home as they can as easily over heat in the garden as they can on a walk.
• Avoid dog play dates where they are running with others.
• Providing a shallow dog paddling pool in a shady area can be a fun way to help keep your dog cool.
• Ice treats or low salt stock made into ice cubes can be given.
• Wearing a cooling pet t-shirt or providing a cooling mat can help prevent overheating.
• Check the ground temperature by placing a bare hand or foot on the pavement and testing for excessive heat. If it’s too hot for you to touch it will hurt your dog to walk on it!
If you suspect a dog is suffering from heatstroke follow our guide below and immediately seek veterinary advice.
• Cool the dog immediately – move them to a shaded area, pour cool (not icy cold) water over them and keep the fur wet, and place them in front of a fan.
• Avoid pouring water on or near your dog's head, as there is a risk of them inhaling water which could lead to drowning, especially for flat-faced and unconscious dogs. Instead use a cold flannel to wipe over their face and paws to help cool them down.
• If your dog is conscious and not vomiting offer them cool water but do not force water into their mouth.
• Take your dog to the nearest vets as a matter of urgency
It’s not just dogs that are at risk of heatstroke. Please contact us if you’d like advice on how to keep your cats and small furries cool and happy during the warmer weather.
This article is intended only as a guide and veterinary advice should be gained if you think your dog is suffering from heatstroke.
For further information please get in touch with our friendly team.
