Companion Animals

Heat Stroke Prevention and First Aid for Dogs

Heat stroke is a preventable welfare emergency in dogs that kills quickly and requires immediate action.

Key Facts

Dogs can reach dangerous body temperatures within 10-15 minutes in a hot car
Temperatures in a parked car can reach 47 degrees even on a mild day
Brachycephalic breeds, elderly dogs, and obese dogs are most at risk
Emergency cooling in water reduces heat stroke severity and improves survival
Leaving a dog in a hot car is a criminal offence under animal welfare legislation

Welfare Considerations

Heat stroke causes severe welfare harm through rapid temperature elevation, brain damage, organ failure, and death. It is almost entirely preventable through simple measures including never leaving dogs in hot cars, avoiding exercise in heat, and providing adequate shade and water. Public awareness of heat stroke risk and emergency response is an important component of dog welfare protection.

What You Can Do

Never leave your dog in a parked car on a warm day
Exercise dogs in cool early morning or evening hours during summer
Provide constant access to shade and fresh water in warm weather
Know the signs of heat stroke including heavy panting, collapse, and vomiting
Apply cool water to a suspected heat stroke dog immediately and seek emergency veterinary care