When the British sun actually shows up, it’s glorious. But while we’re sipping iced coffees and soaking up rays, our dogs are busy doing what they do best - ignoring all sense and running about like loons.
Heatstroke in dogs can happen frighteningly fast, even to the most experienced owners. So here’s your no-nonsense guide to spotting the signs, acting fast, and keeping your best mate safe with no drama, just good sense.
🔥 What Exactly Is Heatstroke?
Heatstroke happens when a dog’s body temperature climbs so high that they can’t cool down naturally and their organs start to shut down. Dogs don’t sweat like we do; they mostly lose heat by panting and a tiny bit through their paws. When they overdo it, they can’t chill off fast enough.
🩺 The Early Signs to Watch For
Don’t expect your dog to tap you on the shoulder and say “Mum, I’m overheating.” Spot these red flags instead:
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Excessive panting that doesn’t settle down
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Heavy drooling
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Bright red (or very pale/grey) gums and tongue
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Wobbling, weakness, or acting “drunk”
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Vomiting or diarrhoea
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Collapse - time is critical here
If you see these, act immediately. Waiting it out is not an option.
🚑 What To Do — Properly
1️⃣ Get your dog out of the heat and into the shade or indoors.
2️⃣ Offer small sips of cool (not icy) water but never force them to drink.
3️⃣ Cool them gradually: damp towels on their armpits, groin, and paws.
4️⃣ Keep air moving - a fan or car AC can help if you’re on the move.
5️⃣ Never dunk them in ice water because you risk putting them into shock.
6️⃣ Call your vet. Every time. Heatstroke is an emergency.
🐕🦺 Pro Tips Even Savvy Owners Rate
You know the basics - shady walks, early mornings, water breaks. Here’s a few extra nuggets that even seasoned dog parents sometimes forget:
✅ Drop the fetch, try a sniffari. Sprinting after a ball is exhausting. Switch to slow, sniff-heavy walks in the shade which are just as tiring and way safer.
✅ Watch water gulpers. Some dogs drink too fast when they’re hot which can cause bloating. Offer little sips, more often.
✅ Use frozen treats wisely. Frozen licki-mats or ice cubes are great at home, but outdoors they can shock the system if your dog’s already overheating. Cool towels first, frozen treats later.
✅ Mind the fake grass trap. Artificial turf heats up faster than real grass - it can burn paws and bellies without your dog realising. Always check with your hand before they flop down for a sunbathe.
✅ Keep your kit in the car. A simple first-aid pouch - water, bowl, towel, vet number - could buy you vital minutes if something goes wrong mid-adventure.
☀️ Final Word
No panic, no overthinking - just good prep and a bit of common sense. If you’re the “always prepared” type, share this with a mate whose dog would chase a ball into the sun and back. You might just save a life.
Stay shady, stay clever!