Companion Animals

Dog Heat Stroke Prevention and Emergency Care

Heat stroke is rapidly fatal in dogs and entirely preventable with appropriate management during hot weather.

Key Facts

Dogs can develop heat stroke at temperatures as low as 24C in direct sun
Brachycephalic breeds including Bulldogs and Pugs are at highest risk
Dogs should never be left in parked cars even in overcast conditions
Heatstroke causes multi-organ failure within minutes of core temperature exceeding 41C
First aid involves cooling with cool (not cold) water and immediate veterinary care

Welfare Considerations

Heat stroke causes rapid, severe suffering - hyperthermia, respiratory distress, and cardiovascular collapse. The welfare cost of preventable heat stroke deaths is significant and entirely avoidable. Public education about never leaving dogs in cars has had measurable impact on incidents.

What You Can Do

Never leave dogs in parked vehicles even on mild days
Walk dogs in early morning or evening during hot weather
Know the signs of heat stroke and have a first aid cooling plan ready