As pet parents, we want nothing but the best for our dogs. We want them to be happy, healthy, and safe. That's why it's so important to be aware of the dangers of heat stroke in dogs.

Heat stroke is a serious condition that can occur when a dog's body temperature rises too high. It can be fatal, but it's also preventable.

In this blog, we'll discuss the signs and symptoms of heat stroke in dogs, and what to do if you think your dog may be suffering from it. We'll also provide some tips on how to prevent heat stroke from happening in the first place.

So let’s dive into it!

Heat stroke is a life-threatening heat related illness that occurs when a dog's body temperature rises too high. It is most common in hot weather, but it can also occur in cooler weather if a dog is overexerted.

Heat stroke occurs when a dog's body is unable to cool itself down effectively. This can happen for a number of reasons, including:

• Being left in a hot car
• Exercising in hot weather
• Having a thick coat
• Being overweight or obese
• Having certain medical conditions, such as heart disease or respiratory problems

Heat stroke being a life-threatening condition, it becomes very important for pet parents to be aware of the possible causes of heat stroke to ensure your dog’s wellbeing. Here are some common factors that can lead to heat stroke in our beloved canine companions:

• High Temperatures: Leaving dogs in excessively hot environments, such as cars on sunny days or unshaded areas, can quickly raise their body temperature to dangerous levels.

  
  

• Excessive Exercise: Overexerting your dog, especially in the heat, can lead to heat stroke. Remember, pups need breaks, too.

  
  

• Lack of Hydration: Dehydration is a prime cause of heat stroke. Ensure your dog always has access to clean water, especially on hot days.

  
  

• Restricted Ventilation: Restricting a dog in enclosed spaces without proper airflow can intensify heat buildup, increasing the risk of heat stroke.

  
  

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs with short snouts (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs) are more susceptible because they have difficulty cooling down through panting.

  
  

• Excessive Fur: Thick or long fur can hinder heat dissipation, making dogs with heavy coats more vulnerable.

  
  

• Elderly Dogs: Ageing dogs or those with pre-existing health issues are more sensitive to heat.

  
  

• Overweight Dogs: Extra pounds insulate dogs, raising their heat stroke risk.

  
  

• Hot Pavement: Walking dogs on scorching pavement can burn their paw pads and lead to heat-related issues.

  
  
• Confinement in Hot Spaces: Trapping a dog in a hot garage or unventilated areas can be life-threatening. Keep your dog's safety in mind during hot weather.

Heat stroke is a serious condition that can affect dogs of all ages and breeds, but it is especially common in hot weather. Learning about the signs of heat stroke is the first step to preventing and treating this condition. 

So, let’s explore the signs through which you can immediately recognize if your dog has overheated so that you can give them the help they need in time to keep them safe.

The most common signs of heat stroke include:

• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Red gums
• Bright red or purple tongue
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Weakness
• Collapse
• Seizures
• Coma

If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately. Heat stroke can be fatal if not treated promptly.

There are also some subtle behavioural changes that can be early warning signs of heat stroke. These may include:

• Restlessness
• Agitation
• Excessive thirst
• Heavy breathing
• Seeking out cool places to lie down
• Avoiding activity

If you notice any of these changes in your dog, it is important to take steps to cool them down and prevent heat stroke.

Heat stroke can affect dogs of all ages and breeds, but some dogs are more at risk than others. Factors that can increase the risk of heat stroke include:

• Dog breeds: Some dog breeds are more prone to heat stroke than others, including short-nosed breeds (e.g., pugs, boxers, bulldogs), brachycephalic breeds (e.g., Shih Tzus, Pekingese, Lhasa Apsos), and overweight or obese dogs.

  
  

• Small dogs: Small dogs have a higher surface area-to-volume ratio than large dogs, which means they can lose heat more quickly. This can make them more susceptible to heat stroke.

  
  

• Types of dogs: Working dogs and hunting dogs are more likely to develop heat stroke because they are more active.

  
  

• Exercise: Exercising in hot weather can increase the risk of heat stroke.

  
  

• Dehydration: Not having enough water can also increase the risk of heat stroke.

  
  

• Underlying health conditions: Dogs with underlying health conditions, such as heart disease, lung disease, or diabetes, are more at risk of heat stroke.

  
  
• Medication use: Some medications can also increase the risk of heat stroke.

If you think that your dog is suffering from heat stroke, it is important to take immediate action. Here are some steps you can take:

First Aid

• Move your dog to a cool, shady spot.
• Apply cool water to your dog's fur and paws.
• Offer your dog cool water to drink.
• Fan them with a towel or newspaper.
• If their body temperature is above 104 degrees Fahrenheit, you can soak them in a cool bath.

Cooling Your Dog Down

There are a number of effective methods of dog heat stroke treatment that cool your dog down. Here are a few tips:

• Use cool water: The best way to cool your dog down is to use cool water. You can apply cool water to their fur and paws, or you can soak them in a cool bath.

  
  

• Use a fan: Fanning your dog can also help to cool them down. Be sure to direct the fan at their fur and paws.

  
  
• Use a wet towel: You can also use a wet towel to cool your dog down. Place the wet towel on their fur and paws, and replace it as it warms up.

It is important to avoid using ice or cold water to cool your dog down, as this can shock their system.

If you suspect that your dog is suffering from heat stroke, it is important to consult a vet immediately. Heat stroke is a serious condition that can be fatal if not treated promptly.

While you are waiting for help to arrive, there are a few things you can do that have been mentioned in the first aid section of the blog, to help stabilize your dog.

It is important to avoid immersing them in cold water, as this can shock their body.

If your dog is unconscious or not breathing, you may need to perform CPR. 

It is also a good idea to have a dog first aid kit on hand. This kit should include basic supplies such as bandages, gauze, and antiseptic wipes. It may also be helpful to include a thermometer and a rectal thermometer in your kit.

There are a number of things you can do to help prevent heat stroke in your dog, including:

• Avoid exercising your dog in hot weather. If you must take your dog outside, make sure to provide them with plenty of water and shade.

  
  

• Make sure your dog has access to fresh, cool water.

  
  

• Provide your dog with a shady spot to rest with a cooling mat preferably.

  
  

• Do not leave your dog in a hot car. Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can rise quickly and become dangerous for your dog.

  
  
• If you notice any signs of heat stroke or heat exhaustion in your dog, such as excessive panting, drooling, red gums, or vomiting, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately.

Leaving your dog in a parked car on a hot day is one of the most dangerous things you can do. Even on a mild day, the temperature inside a parked car can rise quickly and become dangerous for your dog.

Dogs cannot sweat like humans do, so they rely on panting to cool down. However, panting is not always enough to keep them cool in hot weather. When a dog's body temperature rises too high, it can lead to heat stroke.

Heat stroke can be fatal, so it is important to never leave your dog in a parked car on a hot day. Not even for a few minutes.

By staying informed about the signs and symptoms and carefully ensuring that your dog maintains a regular body temperature, you can effectively safeguard their safety and well-being. It's all about being vigilant and taking the necessary steps to protect your four-legged companion.

If you notice any signs of heat stroke in your dog, such as excessive panting, drooling, red gums, or vomiting, it is important to seek veterinary attention immediately. Heat stroke can be fatal if not treated promptly.