06/24/2025
Know the signs of heat stroke/exhaustion in your fur babies. Shade, water, cool basements, walks in the early part of the day and later in the evening/night. Pavement is very hot especially back to back hot days. Please encourage grass walking and bring dogs to a forest like the Grove here in Arnprior. Easy does it on these hot summer days. 🙏🏻
☀️ HEATSTROKE IN PETS: KNOW THE SIGNS 🐾
Ottawa is in the middle of a major heat wave, and today is far too hot to be walking your dog — even short outings can be dangerous.
Our team has already seen multiple cases of heatstroke this season. It’s a life-threatening emergency that can escalate quickly, especially in extreme temperatures.
Pets don’t sweat like we do — they rely on panting to cool themselves, and in this kind of heat, that’s not enough.
🚨 Signs of heatstroke:
• Excessive panting or drooling 😰
• Weakness or collapse
• Vomiting or diarrhea 🤢
• Pale or bright red gums
• Disorientation or seizures
• Elevated body temperature 🌡️
🐶 Some pets are at even higher risk:
• Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like pugs and bulldogs
• Seniors and puppies
• Overweight animals
• Pets left in parked cars or without shade 🚗
⚠️ But the truth is — all pets are at risk in this heat.
💡 Prevention tips:
• Walk only early morning or late evening
• Keep pets indoors in a cool space 🧊
• Offer fresh water regularly
• Skip the walk altogether if it’s too hot
• Never leave your pet in a vehicle — even for a minute
If you suspect heatstroke, get to a veterinary clinic immediately.
Let’s keep our furry friends safe out there 💛