06/05/2025
🚨 Dogs & Heat Stroke: What Every Pet Owner Must Know
🔥 How Quickly Can Dogs Get Heat Stroke?
Dogs can go into heat stroke in as little as 10–15 minutes in extreme conditions — especially in hot cars, direct sun, or when overexerted without water.
🚗 Hot Cars: A Deadly Trap
Even on a mild day, temperatures inside a parked car rise very quickly:
Outside Temp, Inside Car Temp (10 min) Inside Car Temp (30 min)
70°F (21°C) 89°F (32°C) 104°F (40°C)
80°F (27°C) 99°F (37°C) 114°F (46°C)
90°F (32°C) 109°F (43°C) 124°F (51°C)
Dogs cannot regulate heat like humans — they don’t sweat and rely mostly on panting, which becomes ineffective in high humidity or heat.
Heat stroke can begin when a dog’s body temp reaches 104°F (40°C), and organ failure/death can occur above 106°F (41.1°C).
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🧠 Heat Stroke Can Happen When…
• 🟥 Left in a parked car — even for “just 5 minutes”
• 🟥 On hot pavement or long walks in the sun
• 🟥 Playing fetch or running on hot days
• 🟥 Without access to shade and fresh water
• 🟥 Dogs with flat faces (brachycephalic breeds), thick coats, older age, or medical conditions are more at risk
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🚩 Warning Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs
Early Signs 🟠 Danger Signs 🔴 Critical Signs 🚨 Excessive panting
Disorientation/confusion
Collapse/unconsciousness
Drooling/salivating
Rapid heart rate
Seizures
Lethargy
Vomiting/diarrhea (sometimes bloody)
Glassy eyes
Warm to the touch
Bright red gums/tongue Body temp above 104°F
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🚨 Emergency Action Plan
If you suspect heat stroke:
1. Move the dog to a cool/shaded area immediately
2. Use cool (not cold) water to wet them down — especially belly, feet, and armpits
3. Offer small amounts of water (don’t force it)
4. Use a fan if possible
5. GET TO THE VET ASAP — even if they seem “better”
⚠️ Don’t use ice or ice water — it can cause blood vessel constriction and worsen the problem.
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✅ Prevention Tips
• ❌ Never leave your dog in a parked car — cracked windows don’t help
• 🕒 Walk dogs early morning or late evening
• 🐾 Touch pavement with your hand — if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them
• 💦 Always carry water and take breaks
• 🎾 Watch for signs of overexertion, especially in play.
