Heatstroke in Dogs – What Every Pet Owner Should Know

Summer is fast approaching and dogs love nothing more than frolicking in the great outdoors. However, when it’s very hot outside it’s important that pet parents know the early warning signs of heatstroke and how to prevent their poor pup’s body temperature from rising.

In honour of First Aid Week and our partnership with First Aid for Life and First Aid for Pets, we explore everything pet owners need to know about heatstroke. The causes, the signs, first aid advice on what to do if heatstroke occurs, and how to prevent heatstroke in dogs. This way, you both can really enjoy a wonderful walkies holiday with us!

What is heatstroke?

Our dogs are not able to regulate their body temperatures the way we can. Dogs usually maintain a body temperature of around 37-38°C, but if their internal temperature rises above 41°C they will develop heatstroke.

While all canines can develop heatstroke, research has shown that some are more susceptible than others. This includes:

• Dogs who are overweight
• Flat-faced
• Over energetic
• Larger dogs (especially if they are over 50kg)
• Older dogs
• Dogs with thicker/longer fur
• Dogs suffering from other health issues – like heart or breathing problems.

Certain dog breeds will also be at an increased risk, including Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, Pugs, Greyhounds, Chow-Chows, Boxers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, English Springer Spaniels, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Shih Tzus.

What are the causes of heatstroke in dogs?

Heatstroke in dogs can be caused by hot weather or by overheating from too much exercise. Other common causes of heatstroke in dogs include being left in a hot vehicle or being in a hot room.

What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs?

Some early signs of heatstroke in dogs will be more subtle, so you should stay vigilant, especially during the warmer months.

As 98% of dogs treated in the early stages of heatstroke are more likely to survive, it’s crucial to recognise the early signs so that you can act immediately before it gets critical.

Early signs of heatstroke in dogs:

• Panting, clear signs of distress or elevated breathing rates,
• Restlessness, pacing around, seeking shade or water,
• Drooling more than usual,
• Red gums or tongue,
• Fast, weak pulse,
• Raised body temperature,
• Increased heart rate.

More advanced stages of heatstroke in dogs:

• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Seizures
• Unconsciousness
• Vomiting or diarrhoea with blood.

When is it too hot for dogs?

Dogs can be affected by heat stroke at any time of the year. But of course, in warm temperatures, it will be more likely to occur. Most dogs will be comfortable in temperatures of around 15-25 degrees. However, this does depend on other factors too such as the dog breed, age, size, coat length, the amount of exercise they do, and their general health and fitness.

What to do if your dog has heatstroke

So, you have noticed your poor pooch is showing signs of heatstroke. Now is the time to take action. Here’s what to do:

1. Firstly, you’ll need to move your pup out of the heat and into a shaded, cooler area. If you have a fan on hand, the cool air will help keep your dog cool.
2. Pour cool water over your dog – tap water at around 15-16°C is the most effective option. Make sure the water is not too cold as you don’t want to shock them.
3. Give your dog plenty of cool water to drink. Adding a pinch of table salt to their water bowl can help to rehydrate them. 
4. Regularly check your dog’s body temperature and keep up the water-cooling process above until their temperature drops.
5. Call for veterinary advice, you probably will need to bring them in for further help. When you do, make sure you keep the car windows open or have the air conditioning on as you transport them.

Tips on how to prevent dog heatstroke during your ‘Wonderful for Walkies’ holiday

Of course, you want your pup to have the best time when on their PetsPyjamas dog-friendly holiday! Particularly if you are venturing on a ‘Wonderful for Walkies’ holiday where there are so many dog walk opportunities.

So, how do you keep your dog cool and comfortable this summer so they can enjoy the holiday as much as you? Here are our top tips:

1. As exercising is one of the most common causes of heatstroke, it’s best on a hot day to have your dog walks early morning or late evening. Then try to keep to shaded areas to avoid the midday sun and heat exhaustion.
2. Always carry water with you in a water bottle and take regular stops for your pup to have a drink to avoid a heat-induced illness. Remember to have fresh water with you on the beach too, drinking seawater will only dehydrate your pup further.
3. For your dog-friendly holiday, consider taking a harness with you. This way, you can attach the lead to it and prevent pulling on their collar. When you have the lead attached to your dog’s collar, this can press against their airways and can cause further heat stress.
4. Avoid hot pavements as this can burn your dog’s poor paws. Always feel the ground to check it won’t be too painful for your pup to walk on.
5. When taking a break, you can put down wet towels for your dog to lie on. Make sure they are away from direct sunlight to keep their body temperature down.
6. Never leave your dog in the car by themselves, and make sure that you have plenty of air conditioning on when driving with your dog in the car.
7. Before you head out on your wonderful for walkies dog-friendly holiday, consider giving your dog a groom! The shorter their fur coat is, the cooler their body temperature will be.

About First Aid For Pets 

First Aid for Pets is an Award Winning Dog First Aid training provider empowering all pet lovers with the skills and confidence to help their pet – in those first vital minutes before you can get to a Vet. 

First Aid for Pets is delighted to offer PetsPyjamas customers 20% off our First Aid for Dogs online course. Use the code: couponpetspyjamas20 or follow this link HERE

Preventing Heatstroke in Dogs with PetsPyjamas

Now you know the signs of heatstroke and how to prevent heat exhaustion, you are ready for the perfect dog-friendly holiday with us. Whether you choose a dog-friendly hotel near a beach or a dog-friendly cottage in the beautiful countryside, our properties are placed in areas where you can enjoy wonderful walkies with your canine companion.

What are you waiting for? Get ready for an adventure by booking your next wonderful for walkies holiday with us!