Heatstroke in dogs

Did you know that dogs can suffer from heatstroke, and that it's quite common? However, it's incredibly dangerous for your dog, especially if they're left unattended for too long in a very hot or confined space. You really want to avoid this, not just because it's stressful and uncomfortable for your dog, but because situations that lead to heatstroke can be fatal. Even if it doesn't lead to death, your dog can suffer serious damage to internal organs.

So, if you've been thinking about leaving your dog in the car on a hot, sunny summer's day, or taking them for a walk in really hot weather without providing water and shade, please think again – it could have life-threatening consequences. Learn more about heatstroke in dogs below!

Why is heat stroke so dangerous for dogs?
Why is it that most of us humans enjoy spending time in hot, sunny weather, while dogs suffer? Well, dogs don't regulate their body temperature in the same way we do. They can't sweat like us.

For a dog to cool down, it has to pant – the cold air passing through the blood vessels in its mouth cools the blood. It also helps if the dog lies down somewhere cool, allowing its belly and paws to cool.

However, if your dog can't cool down sufficiently due to a lack of shade, cool surfaces, or fluids, it can cause serious problems. If the air is too hot, panting won't be effective and could even make your dog hotter. Eventually, this can lead to heatstroke, which can be life-threatening!

What can cause heat stroke in dogs?
There are a number of different situations that can cause heatstroke in dogs. Some are obvious, while others might surprise you. By far the most common causes are:

• Dog left in a hot car

• Dog in confined spaces

• Lack of shade or cooling

• Exercising in hot weather without breaks or water

• Hot cars and confined spaces

Most dog owners know they shouldn't leave their dog unattended in a car on a hot, sunny day. Sadly, many still make this mistake.

Leaving dogs trapped in cars or other confined spaces is by far the most common cause of heatstroke. For this reason, it's now illegal to leave your dog unattended in a car if the outside temperature exceeds 25 degrees Celsius.

However, you should never leave your dog in a locked car, even if the temperature is lower. This also applies on cloudy days, if a window or the tailgate is open, if the car is in the shade, or if it's early in the day.

Too long in the sun
It's also common for dogs to suffer heatstroke if they're in the sun for too long, especially if there's a lack of shade, cooling, and fresh water. This can happen when you're outside in hot, sunny weather, or if you take your dog for exercise when the temperature is high.

The dog itselfSomething you might find useful to know is that some breeds, and even some individual dogs, are extra sensitive to heat. This is often the case with brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs, who already struggle to regulate their body temperature through panting.

Overweight dogs, dogs with long, thick coats, and dogs with illnesses or breathing problems can also find the heat particularly difficult. Heatstroke can occur more easily in these dogs, and can quickly lead to more serious consequences.

Symptoms of heat stroke - how to tell if your dog is affected
Although heatstroke is common in dogs and can have serious consequences, it's not always easy to tell if your dog is suffering from it. However, there are many symptoms to look out for that can indicate heatstroke. Some early signs of heatstroke, or heat stress, include:

• Heavy panting

• Excessive drooling

• Anxiety or nervousness

• Restlessness, seeking cool places

• Increased heart rate

• Red, dry gums

If your dog has developed more severe heatstroke, you might notice the following symptoms:

• Weakness

• Staggering or collapsing

• Difficulty breathing

• Vomiting and diarrhoea

• Shock and unconsciousness (very severe)

My dog has suffered heat stroke - what should I do?
Is your dog showing symptoms of heatstroke? If so, it's vital that you act as quickly as possible! Especially if your dog is showing serious symptoms, go to the vet immediately. Try to cool your dog down on the way there.

If your dog isn't showing obvious symptoms but you're worried they might have heatstroke, you can always consult a digital vet. As a Lassie customer, you have unlimited access to this service directly through our app.

Help your dog on his own
However, if your dog has suffered a milder form of heatstroke, there are several things you can do before a vet visit is necessary. We always recommend contacting a vet, and visiting one, if you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke.

Cool downBefore you take your dog to the vet for a check-up, make sure they are in a cool, shaded place. Your dog should rest and be offered cool, fresh water as needed.

To help cool your dog down further, you can apply damp (lukewarm) towels or give them a lukewarm shower. Focus on the groin, armpits, paws, and head. Importantly, don't cool your dog down too quickly, and never give them fever-reducing medication during heatstroke.

Keep an eye on the temperature
It's a good idea to check your dog's body temperature at regular intervals after you've started cooling. After a few minutes, take their temperature with a rectal thermometer. Continue cooling until your dog's temperature is around 39.5°C. Finally, visit the vet to ensure everything is okay!