He’s Heated! How to Identify Symptoms of Heatstroke in Dogs

Heatstroke in dogs can happen very quickly in those hot summer months, make sure you’re prepared!

If you’re lucky enough to live in an environment with year ‘round summer temperatures and you have a dog, you’ll want to pay close attention to this tips. We want you to be aware of the signs of detecting a heatstroke in dogs and how to treat your pup.

Signs and Symptoms of a Heatstroke in Dogs

• Excessive or loud panting
• Extreme thirst
• Frequent vomiting
• A bright red tongue and pale gums
• Skin around muzzle or neck doesn’t snap back when pinched
• Thick saliva
• Increased heart rate
• A sluggish, disoriented, or unresponsive demeanor

Tips and Preventative Steps to Keep Your Dog Cool

1. Don’t leave your pup outside in the heat for any amount of time.
2. Get your dog an inflatable pool. They can sit and dip at leisure.
3. Use cooling vests for dogs if you’re going to be outside for an extended amount of time with your dog.
4. Walk your pup at sunrise and sundown times. It’s normally cooler then.
5. Restrict her outdoor exercises. Now is not the time to push her to the physical limits.
6. Have clean water accessible for her at all times.
7. Do not muzzle her. It’s too restrictive and doesn’t allow her to pant, which is part of her cooling down process.
8. Never leave your dog in a car. This is a number one way to prevent a heatstroke in dogs. The heat traps and it can seriously harm or kill your pup.
9. Give your dog cold, icy treats. Ice cubes suffice, but if you have some extra money lying around, buy puppy ice cream or popsicles.
10. If your dog accompanies you on a road trip, invest in window shades.
11. Your dog’s paws are important and need protection in the winter and summer.

If you have even more extra money, purchase cooling a bandana for your pup’s neck.

How to Treat a Heatstroke in Dogs

1. Put your dog in the bathtub with cool water covering her entire body.
2. Apply a cold pack to your pup’s head.
3. If you can’t use a bathtub but a hose is available, use that.
4. You can also place her in an inflatable pool of cool water.
5. Take her temperature every five minutes and continue cooling her until her temperature drops below 103°F.
6. Massage her legs. The rubbing helps her circulation and reduces the risks of shock.
7. Allow her to drink as much cool or cold water as possible. A heatstroke in dogs may cause them to lose minerals. Add a pinch of salt in the water to replace any that she may have lost.
8. Seek the immediate help from your veterinarian if the symptoms persist.