What to do in case of heatstroke in dogs?
BackHeatstroke in a dog
Degree of Urgency:
CRITICAL
Heatstroke is a critical and extremely severe emergency. The prognosis is often guarded.
What is Heatstroke?
Heatstroke in dogs typically occurs during temperature spikes, after prolonged exposure or play in the sun, or in enclosed spaces like cars. Your dog may appear lethargic, pant excessively, and could later develop diarrhea, vomiting, or even seizures. Brachycephalic breeds (e.g., bulldogs) are particularly prone to heatstroke.
WHAT TO DO IN AN EMERGENCY / FIRST AID MEASURES
First aid is crucial—you can save your pet by acting quickly:
Immediately move your dog to a shaded, cool, and well-ventilated area (use a fan or air conditioner near the dog’s airways).
Shower your dog with cool (not ice-cold) water at around 20°C (68°F), covering the entire body.
Monitor your dog’s rectal temperature and stop cooling once it drops below 39°C (102.2°F) or when your dog begins breathing normally.
Offer water to drink freely.
Simultaneously, contact an emergency veterinary service for an immediate consultation.
⚠️ Note: Even if your dog seems to have recovered, it may have internal injuries (especially if there was diarrhea or vomiting). Normal breathing does not necessarily mean the danger is over.
For highly stressed animals (e.g., cats, rabbits, chinchillas), a cool bath may be used instead of showering.
WHAT NOT TO DO
Do not cover your dog with a wet towel: This is insufficient and can act as an insulator, trapping heat and delaying cooling.
SIGNS TO WATCH FOR / WHEN TO CONSULT A VETERINARIAN
Heatstroke is easy to suspect based on:
Circumstances: Intense physical activity, heatwaves, brachycephalic dogs left in the sun or confined in poorly ventilated spaces, etc.
Symptoms: Rapid breathing with a wide-open mouth, anxiety, restlessness, excessive drooling, very red and congested gums, body feeling hot to the touch, possible vomiting, or bloody diarrhea.
DID YOU KNOW?
During heatstroke caused by climatic conditions or excessive exercise, animals become hyperthermic, meaning their body temperature rises above the normal range (38.5°C or 101.3°F).
A body temperature exceeding 41°C (105.8°F) can quickly become fatal.
Without immediate care, the animal’s body becomes exhausted, organs begin to break down, and death can occur within an hour.
Heatstroke is a critical emergency with a guarded prognosis. Even if the animal survives, the aftereffects can be severe and debilitating.
PREVENTION IS KEY
Precautions to Take
Be extra cautious with elderly animals and brachycephalic breeds.
Never leave an animal alone in a car: Temperatures can quickly exceed 70°C (158°F).
During hot weather, walk your dog early in the morning (before 10 a.m.) or late in the evening (after 9 p.m.).
Avoid asphalt: Asphalt temperatures can be much higher than air temperatures (often exceeding 50°C/122°F), which can be unbearable for pets, especially those close to the ground.
Always ensure your pet has access to fresh water.
