Heat Stroke

By Kay Hisano | Dated February 7, 2023

February is one of the hottest months of the year. It’s a great time to enjoy Sydney’s beautiful beaches, but it can be a dangerous time of year for our pets. Dogs are more sensitive to hot weather than people which can lead to heat stress and deadly heat stroke. Do you know the warning signs of heat stroke and first aid for your dog?

Unlike humans, dogs do not have sweat glands over their entire body. They rely on panting to help cool them down in hot weather. In hot and/or humid weather, a dog’s core temperature can increase faster than a human’s causing heat stroke. Heat stroke is when the dog’s core temperature rises to a point where it starts to damage the cells and proteins in their body. Heat stroke is often fatal so early intervention is key. Signs of heat stroke in a dog include:

• Increased body temperature
• Excessive panting
• Excessive drooling with thick saliva
• Rapid heart rate
• Vomiting and/or diarrhea (both of which may contain blood)
• Confusion or anxiety
• Weakness, incoordination or collapse
• Coma and death

Some dogs are more likely to develop heat stress than others. Some dogs that are at increased risk of heat stroke are:

• Brachycephalic (flat faced) breeds such as English Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs
• Long haired or thick coated dogs
• Elderly dogs or young puppies
• Dogs with heart disease, respiratory disease or kidney disease
• Anxious dogs
• Overweight or obese dogs

If you suspect your dog may have heat stroke the best thing to do is wet them all over with cool or lukewarm water. Fan them to provide air movement to assist with evaporative cooling. Immediately bring your pet in to Gordon Vet or your nearest emergency clinic for treatment. Call to let us know you are on your way if you can.

Even with prompt veterinary treatment, heat stroke is often deadly. Fortunately, there are many ways you can prevent heat stroke.

• Do not exercise your dog in hot weather.
• If your dog is in the backyard during the day, make sure they have access to cool, shady areas and a wading pool if possible.
• Provide plenty of fresh water. It may be a good idea to put down more than one water bowl in case on is accidentally tipped over.
• Frozen ice blocks with treats or kibble inside.
• Restrict access to hot surfaces such as concrete, bitumen and sand.
• Do not leave your dog unattended in the car – even for short periods with the window down