The life-threatening risks of heatstroke
Heatstroke in dogs is a serious and potentially fatal condition if you don’t know when and how to act. We all need to be able to recognise the early signs and act quickly.
Often people don’t understand how heatstroke happens or how easy it is for a dog to get heatstroke. Even days which you think may be cooler can impact your dog.
The Signs of Heatstroke
Early signs of heatstroke
Heavy Panting
Excessive and incessant panting is a key early sign of heatstroke in dogs. This can progress to distressed or noisy breathing as the heatstroke worsens. This isn’t just them trying to catch their breath; it can be a serious warning sign.
Common Behaviours
Restlessness or agitation, pacing, seeking shade or water: these behaviors can be early signs of heatstroke. Don't ignore them — act quickly to cool your dog down and provide plenty of water.
Drooling or Foaming
Notice your dog drooling more than usual or foaming at the mouth? Thick, excessive drool or foam can be a sign of heatstroke, especially if their gums are sticky and dry.
Red Gums or Tongue
Bright red gums or tongue in dogs aren’t just a sign of exertion; they could indicate heatstroke.
Increased Heart Rate
If your dog’s heart seems to be racing after minimal exertion, it could be struggling with heat.
Advanced Signs
Vomiting or Diarrhoea
Vomiting or diarrhoea during hot weather? It could be more than just an upset stomach. Cool your dog down and speak to a vet.
Lethargy, Weakness or Confusion
Is your dog acting lethargic, weak, or confused? These could be serious signs of heatstroke. Act fast to cool them down and seek veterinary help.
Collapse, Loss of Consciousness or Seizures
Collapse or loss of consciousness in dogs can be a direct result of heatstroke and is a critical emergency. Seizures are common in severe cases of heatstroke and can signal a life-threatening situation. Your dog needs to be seen by an emergency vet immediately.
How to manage heatstroke
In high heat, dogs risk life-threatening heatstroke. Prioritise cooling first: immerse young, healthy dogs in cold water, or pour cold water over older or at-risk dogs, combined with a fan or breeze. (Do don’t leave them unattended in water in case of collapse.)
Cool first, transport second.
Even if your dog seems better, heatstroke can have delayed effects so rush to your vet to ensure their safety.
Beware of outdated info
Using old advice in emergencies like dog heatstroke can be dangerous. Don’t rely on lukewarm water—it's less effective and could worsen your dog's condition.
What temperature water to use?
The current, scientifically backed advice is to use cold water between 10° and 20° Celsius. This is the recommendation for effective cooling without causing shock.
I’m seeing a lot of conflicting advice, how do I know what to believe?
There is a lot of outdated information and advice on the following:
Ice Cold (less than 5°C): The myth is that it’s the fastest cooling method. However, it can cause shock and delay effective cooling.
Lukewarm/Tepid (~35°C): This was the advice that was previously widely given, however, it is now known to be less effective and poses a risk as it doesn’t provide sufficient cooling quickly enough.
Warm (30°-40°C): This is a misconception that was been shown to be ineffective for rapid temperature reduction.
Hot (40°C+): Extreme heat is dangerous and must be avoided to prevent severe heatstroke.
Even if your dog appears to be fine after cooling, there can be longer lasting effects so please contact your dog to ensure their safety and recovery.
Sources:
https://askanimalweb.com/managing-dogs-in-hot-weather/
https://www.rvc.ac.uk/small-animal-vet/teaching-and-research/fact-files/heatstroke-in-dogs-and-cats
https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/heatstroke