22/06/2025
‼️ Heat Warning ‼️
Heat stroke can happen to any dog, but did you know some dogs are extra vulnerable to the heat? Take extra care with the following dogs in the coming days:
🐾 Brachycephalic dogs (Bulldogs, Boxers, Pugs, Shih Tzus, Boston Terriers, Lhasa Apsos, etc.): These dogs' limited airflow makes it harder to cool themselves.
🐾 Dogs with thick coats (Labs, Huskies, Goldens, etc.): Heat can get trapped and insulated under the top layer of fur. Never shave your double-coated dog unless directed by a vet; instead, brush daily to help keep them cool.
🐾 Dogs with excess weight: These dogs can overheat easily from exertion, so they're especially at risk when the heat index is high.
🐾 Seniors: Older dogs are more sensitive to heat and may have medical conditions that make them more prone to heat stroke.
🐾 Puppies: Young dogs aren't as good at regulating body temperature as adult dogs, and they may overexert themselves through play on hot days.
Our volunteers are taking precautions with our ElderDogs this week by limiting walks to around 10 minutes, staying in the shade, bringing water, staying off pavement, timing walks for mornings and evenings, and cancelling walks when possible.
Read more about heat stroke in dogs here: https://spca.bc.ca/news/dogs-sensitive-hot-weather/