11/07/2025
🌞🐶 DOGS + HEAT = DANGER! 🐶🌞
Very high temperatures forecast again this week and into the weekend.
As the temperatures rise, so does the risk of heat stroke in our furry friends. Dogs don’t sweat like we do—they cool down mostly through panting, which isn’t always enough on hot days.
🚨 Heat Stroke Symptoms in Dogs:
• Excessive panting or drooling
• Weakness or collapse
• Bright red or pale gums
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Glazed eyes
• Uncoordinated movement
💔 Who’s Most at Risk?
• Flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boxers
• Puppies and senior dogs
• Overweight dogs
• Dogs with thick coats
• Dogs with heart or respiratory issues
💧 How to Keep Your Dog Cool:
✅ Always provide access to fresh, cool water
✅ Avoid walks during peak heat (go early morning or late evening)
✅ Never leave your dog in a parked car—even for a minute
✅ Provide shade and a cool resting spot outdoors
✅ Use cooling mats to help regulate body temp
✅ Let them enjoy a safe splash in a kiddie pool or with the hose
✅ Ice cubes are a safe and fun way to cool and hydrate
⚠️ If you suspect heat stroke, you should:
💧Get someone to call the local veterinary practice and tell them you're going to travel down with a heat stroke patient
💧Pour, hose or if safe immerse the pet in very cold water (this should obviously be done under constant supervision, ensuring the head is fully above water and immersion should not be attempted if the animal is too large, or you are unable to do so without hurting yourself)
💧NB: If using a hose pipe, make sure it has run through until cold, as they can often contain water that is extremely hot in the tubing initially
💧Do not drape in towels and leave them in situ. Keep the cold water flowing.
💧Move to a cool, shaded area
💧Prepare to transport to vets in a cold, air conditioned car
Keep those tails wagging safely this summer! 🐾❤️
