Heat Stroke

Preventive action

Tips to help you prevent pets suffering this summer

Heatstroke is one of the most catastrophic, and yet easily preventable, conditions that dogs can suffer from. Dogs are often so eager to please and will continue to play until their bodies can't take any more. 

Symptoms of Heat Stroke in pets

  • Heavy panting

  • Abnormal breathing

  • Collapse

  • Vomiting and diarrhoea

  • Bleeding disorders

Causes of Heat Stroke in pets

Dogs can’t sweat and only cool down by panting. Days with temperatures over 30 degrees brings an increased risk of heatstroke, and the higher the temperature, the harder it is for dogs to cool down. Cats are generally more sensible and are only likely to get heat stroke if left locked in a hot environment like a car.

When a dog overheats they essentially cook internally and the cells within their body break down. Heatstroke can cause vomiting and diarrhoea, bleeding disorders and even brain damage. These signs can show quickly or even take a few days to become apparent.

It is also possible for dogs to burn their paw pads walking on asphalt on hot days. If the road is too hot to hold your hand against for 5 seconds, it's too hot for their feet.

What to do if your dog has Heat Stroke?

If you see your dog collapse, panting heavily or breathing strangely, first cool them down by wetting or hosing them over for 5 minutes before taking them to the vet, then drive to the vet with the windows down or with the air con on as this can increase their chances of survival.

Dogs with a higher risk of overheating are:

  • Short-nosed breeds such as bulldogs that have existing airway abnormalities

  • Overweight dogs and or dogs with thick, dark hair coats 

  • Older dogs that may have heart disease and or some structural changes to their throat

  • Dogs that have recently moved to hotter climates and haven't had time to adjust

Tips to avoid Heat Stroke in pets

For more tips about keeping your pets safe this summer check out this page.

  • Avoiding any activity in the middle of the day. Go walking in the cool of the early morning or late evening instead

  • Providing lots of fresh drinking water

  • Always providing some form of shade during the day

  • Providing ice blocks and paddling pools to cool down with

  • Having the air conditioning on in the car or having the windows down while driving

  • NEVER leave your pets in a hot car

  • Consider a full body clip for long haired or thick coated breeds

If concerned, contact the surgery directly on 02 6884 9900, or for an after-hours emergency 0418 638 380. 

Adventure Digital