Dog heatstroke is often caused by keeping a dog in a locked car parked in the sun, by keeping him in any hot area without adequate ventilation, over exertion in hot temperatures or just simply over heating due to the external environment conditions.

As with anything prevention is better than cure.

You can help to reduce the risk by following a number of simple guidelines such as  keeping your dog indoors in excessive heat or only in shaded areas outside, ensuring they have plenty of clean cool water to drink and where possible, to lie in. You should walk early morning or late afternoon/evening to avoid the hottest part of the day and reduce the length of the walks to avoid over exertion and walk your dog near water wherever possible. And most importantly NEVER leave your dog in a car even for “just a minute”

Even with the best prevention methods there is always a risk so how do you spot the signs?

The most common signs of dog heatstroke are excessive drooling, vomiting, lack of coordination, rapid breathing,  high temperature, and a top of the head that is hot to the touch, glazed eyes, lethargy, excessive thirst and excessive panting.

Rapid treatment is vital.

Body temperatures can get as high as 41.5 degrees Celsius, and without quick cooling, severe brain damage and death will occur. So what can you do? First of all remove the dog from the hot environment and place in a shaded or cool area,  immerse him in a lukewarm water bath or continuously running water if it’s available. If you do not have access to lukewarm water use a slow running garden hose to trickle water over the body (especially between the hind legs and over the abdomen); continue either treatment for at least 30 minutes. Apply an ice pack to the top of the back of the head and neck and try to keep it there while transporting the patient to the veterinary surgeon immediately after performing the above-mentioned treatment.

Dog Heatstroke can be a killer so follow these guidelines to help your best friend stay safe in hot weather.

If you would like to find our more from the RSPCA click here

To read our Blog about how to keep my dog cool click here