by Giorgos Frantzeskakis
As temperatures rise, pet owners are urged to stay vigilant about the dangers of heatstroke, a preventable but often deadly condition that continues to claim the lives of animals each summer.
Despite growing public awareness, veterinarians still see tragic cases of pets dying from heat exposure, often under avoidable circumstances. Among the most common are dogs left in parked cars, where temperatures can soar to fatal levels within minutes.
Recognizing heatstroke in pets
Common signs of heatstroke in animals include:
-
Body temperature over 41°C (105.8°F)
-
Heavy panting
-
Excessive drooling
-
Weakness or disorientation
-
Red or blue urine
In severe cases, symptoms may include vomiting, seizures, or loss of consciousness.
What to do in an emergency
If you suspect a pet is suffering from heatstroke:
-
Move the animal to a shaded, cool, well-ventilated area, ideally with air conditioning.
-
Use cool (not cold) water to wet the animal’s body, especially the belly, paws, inner thighs, and neck. Avoid the head and do not use ice-cold water, which can restrict blood flow and worsen the condition.
-
Offer small amounts of water from your hand, not a bowl. Do not force the animal to drink.
-
Monitor the pet’s temperature using a rectal thermometer. Once it falls below 39.5°C (103.1°F), stop active cooling to prevent hypothermia.
Even if the pet appears to recover, immediate veterinary attention is critical. Heatstroke can lead to delayed complications such as organ failure, brain swelling, and clotting disorders.
Preventing heatstroke
Experts recommend the following precautions:
-
Avoid walks or physical activity during peak heat hours, typically from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
-
Always provide access to clean, cool water and shaded areas. Remember that the sun’s position changes throughout the day.
-
Carry water, towels, a spray bottle, and a thermometer during outings.
-
Be extra cautious with brachycephalic breeds such as pugs, bulldogs, and boxers, which are more prone to overheating.
The danger of parked cars
Many heatstroke cases are linked to pets left inside vehicles. Despite repeated warnings, owners continue to risk their pets’ lives with excuses such as “I was gone for just five minutes,” or “I left the windows cracked.”
Veterinarians stress that none of these measures are safe. Even brief exposure to high temperatures can be deadly. Heatstroke causes slow, painful deaths, and it’s entirely preventable.
This summer, animal welfare groups are encouraging a simple message: Yes, it can happen to you. And if it does, it can happen fast.
