Animal Health Tech with dog with heat stroke

A Pet Owner’s Guide to Preventing Heat Stroke

We’ve had a few VERY hot day in Pietermaritzburg recently. When the temperature climbs, we head for the AC or grab a glass of cold water. But for our pets, staying cool is a much bigger challenge. Dogs and cats don’t sweat like we do; they rely on panting and releasing heat through their paw pads, which isn’t always enough. This is why heat stroke is a major problem in hot, humid areas.

Heat stroke (hyperthermia) is a serious medical emergency that can lead to organ failure and can be fatal.

Here is what every pet owner needs to know to keep their furry friends safe.

How to Spot Heat Stroke

Early detection is the key to a full recovery. If your pet has been in the sun or a warm room, watch for these symptoms:

  • Excessive, frantic panting: This is often the first sign of distress
  • Increased heart rate
  • Hypersalivation: Thick, ropey drool or foam at the mouth
  • Bright red gums: In severe cases, gums may turn blue or gray (this means your pet isn’t getting enough oxygen)
  • Lethargy and disorientation: Stumbling, dizziness, or a “glazed over” look in their eyes
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea: This could be a sign that their body is beginning to go into shock
  • Muscle fasciculations, seizures and total collapse: In advanced stages

High-Risk Factors

While any pet can suffer from heat stroke, some are more “heat-sensitive” than others:

  • Brachycephalic dogs: Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats (They have narrow airways, making panting less efficient.)
  • Senior pets or very young animals: Puppies, kittens and older pets (Their bodies can’t regulate temperature as well.)
  • Certain medical conditions: Heart disease, obesity or lung issues (These put extra strain on the respiratory system.)
  • Coat Type: Thick or dark-colored fur: St. Bernards, Huskies, shepherds, Burmese Mountain dogs, etc. (Darker coats absorb more radiant heat from the sun, thick coated breeds may suffer more heat stress in very warm/humid climates.)

Immediate First Aid: 

If you suspect your pet is overheating, time is of the essence.

What to Do If You Are Close To A Vet:

In our experience, and in our specific area and climate, animals who present to the vet ASAP after noticing signs of heat stroke tend to do better. We do not suggest spending too much time cooling your pet down at home if you are close enough to a vet.

  • Move your pet into a cool area
  • Wet your pet with tepid water (room temperature/tap temperature – NOT ICE COLD!)
  • Put your pet in your car, crank up the air conditioner and rush to your nearest vet

What to Do If You Are NOT Close To A Vet:

  • Move to shade: Get them into a cool, air-conditioned environment immediately.
  • Apply tepid water: Do NOT use ice-cold water, it can have a reverse affect and make hyperthermia worse. Use room-temperature water on their belly, inguinal area, armpits, and paws.
  • Use a fan: The airflow helps your pet cool down efficiently, without initiating rebound hypothermia.
  • Head to the vet ASAP: Even if they seem to “perk up,” internal damage can occur that isn’t visible. Professional monitoring is a highly recommended.

Prevention Tips for a Safe Summer

Be mindful of when you play with or exercise your pet on hot days.

  • Never leave pets in cars: On a 24°C day, the inside of a car can hit 38°C in just 10 minutes, even with the windows cracked.
  • Fresh water: Ensure your pet has multiple bowls available with fresh, clean water, preferably kept in shaded areas if outside.
  • Exercise at dawn or dusk: Avoid peak sun hours (10 AM to 4 PM).
  • The “Five-Second” Rule: Place the back of your hand on the pavement. If you can’t hold it there for five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. And if it’s that hot, you probably shouldn’t be walking them at that time anyway.

Pro Tip: If you want to give your dog a “cool” treat, freeze some low-sodium chicken broth in an ice cube tray! It’s hydrating and helps them keep cool from the inside out.

For more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 033 342 4698.

Feel free to check out our Instagram reel for extra info!
Heat Stroke In Pets

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