Heat stroke is a preventable welfare emergency that kills thousands of dogs annually and causes severe suffering in many more.
Heat stroke causes extreme suffering including panting, confusion, collapse, seizures, and organ failure before death. Prevention is entirely within owner control — never leaving dogs in hot cars, avoiding exercise in the heat of the day, and providing shade and water at all times. Brachycephalic dogs are at extreme risk from any heat stress due to compromised airway function. Emergency treatment involving rapid cooling is time-critical; without prompt action, heat stroke causes prolonged suffering and death. Veterinary emergency treatment saves many dogs annually.