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Signs of Heat Stroke in Pets and What You Should Do

Jun 21, 2022

Article by Sarah Cortright, DVM
One of the most common things we see as the temperature starts to increase is heat stroke in pets. Dogs and cats do not have many sweat glands and depend primarily on panting to cool themselves. 

This makes them much more likely to overheat.

Symptoms

Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness or incoordination, or even collapsing. 

If you see any of those signs bring them inside immediately to cool them down.

Risk Factors

Your pet does not need to be in extreme temperatures or direct sunlight in order to be at risk of developing heat stroke – any brachycephalic breeds like pugs or bulldogs, really young or old dogs, or dogs with preexisting heart disease can be at higher risk of developing heat stroke.

High humidity, lack of shade or water and inadequate airflow can also increase risk of heat stroke. 

What You Can Do as a Pet Parent

It may seem obvious, but pet parents should avoid taking their pets out during peak hours of the day to avoid high temperatures.

Bonus Tip #1: After you bring them inside after seeing symptoms, be sure to give them cool water (not cold) so they don’t drop their temperature too quickly.

Bonus Tip #2: If you are thinking about taking your pet on a walk, and can’t hold your hand on the ground for more than 7 seconds, then it’s too hot for their paw pads. Be sure to check every surface before walking your pet. Whether it’s pavement, grass or dirt trails, if the surface is in sunlight, it can get too hot for your pet. Your best bet is always morning or evening for a safe walk!

Booties will help to protect your dog’s feet if hot surfaces cannot be avoided, but they won’t protect from the other symptoms of heat stroke listed above.

Bonus Tip #3: Any dogs with thin or white coats are going to be more likely to be burned in thin haired areas (tops of the ears and abdomen), and may need to be wearing sunscreen or some form of sun protection.

Be Fourth of July Ready with APCC!

The Fourth of July can be a stressful holiday for pets! Plan ahead of time! If your pet needs anti-anxiety medication NOW is the time to contact your veterinarian. If you wait until the day before, there may not be adequate time to fill your prescription.

You can also check out this article to learn more about Fourth of July safety written by our Office Manager Tim Wheaton. 

About The Author

Sarah Cortright, DVM | Dr. Cortright grew up in rural Mansfield, New Jersey on her parents’ dairy farm. Growing up on a farm meant animals were an integral part of her life from childhood. She loved and cared for each one of their creatures, from a rambunctious donkey to loving barn cats. She was amazed when a veterinarian came to the farm and was able to treat them all! She knew at a young age that working with animals was her passion, so becoming a veterinarian became her main goal. Read more about her on Meet Our Doctors.

And follow her and her cases with us on TikTok!