Dog Heatstroke Symptoms: Full List And What To Do Next

As we humans struggle to fall asleep and wrestle with withering lawns in the heatwave, it’s important to remember that our animals are struggling in the same blistering temperatures.

Sometimes, the RSPCA said, overheating can lead to potentially “fatal” heatstroke in dogs, whose risk of heatstroke rises at temperatures over 20°C.

Some of the symptoms of overheating and heatstroke can show up in your dog’s mouth first, they added.

Dogs pant more often the hotter they are, as that’s their primary cooling mechanism.

Dogs Trust said that heavy panting and/or changes to your dog’s breathing can be a sign of heatstroke.

Yes, sometimes, this is a dental issue. But the RSPCA added that if it’s “coupled with panting and heavy breathing, red gums can occur when a dog is overheating”.

And the Blue Cross listed “purple gums or red skin” in their list of heatstroke symptoms for dogs.

Dogs Trust, meanwhile, said you should look out for bright pink or red gums or lips.

Per the RSPCA, a dog that’s drooling more than usual and/or has thicker and stickier drool than you’re used to, this can be another sign of heatstroke.

The Blue Cross also said a dog with heatstroke may start dribbling.

The Blue Cross, RSPCA, and Dogs Trust all list this as a symptom of overheating and possible heatstroke.

The RSPCA added that heatstroke can also cause diarrhoea; if this is bloody, that can be a sign that heatstroke is more severe.

Dogs that begin breathing more quickly or heavily than usual could be facing heatstroke, the RSPCA said. Noisy breathing can also be a sign, especially among flat-faced breeds like pugs and French bulldogs.

• A dry nose,
• Infrequent urination,
• A higher than usual heart rate,
• Shaking and shivering due to muscle spasms,
• Seizures, especially in epileptic dogs,
• Collapse,
• Confusion or disorientation,
• Tiredness,
• Sunken eyes,
• Weakness,
• Red skin,
• Being wobbly on their feet.

The RSPCA stressed that owners should “cool first, transport second”. In other words, it’s important to get your dog’s temperature down before you take them to a vet.

Remove them from their hot environment and stop any exercise, the charity added. Move them into existing shade, or create some temporary shade if none is available.

Pour water on their body but not their head, focusing on their stomach, neck, and thighs. “Submerge their body in cool water if available (such as a paddling pool or stream, as long as the water temperature is cooler than the dog),” the RSPCA added, but don’t do this with an unconscious, sick, or older dog.

Take them to the vet once they’ve cooled down, ensuring the vehicle you’re bringing them in is cool, well-ventilated, and has easy access to water. Open your windows and/or use the air conditioning.

Stay calm, the RSPCA continued, and ring ahead to let the vet know about the urgency of the situation.