☀️ Heatstroke In Pets: Here’s What You Need to Know

Heat stroke (heat exhaustion or hyperthermia) happens when a pet’s body temperature rises dangerously high and can’t cool down. This can cause organ damage, seizures, and even death if not treated quickly. All pets are vulnerable, but we see heat stroke most often in dogs, especially after:

• Outdoor play on hot or humid days
• Long walks or runs in the heat
• Being left in a car, even briefly

The Danger of Hot Cars

It doesn’t take long for a car to become a death trap. On a 75°F day, the inside of a car can reach 100°F in just 10 minutes. At 85°F, it can reach 120°F in 30 minutes—even with windows cracked. Pets can suffer organ failure or death in under 15 minutes

Never leave your pet in a car unattended. Not even for a quick errand.

Common Signs of Heat Stroke

• Excessive panting or drooling
• Bright red or pale gums
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Weakness or collapse
• Rapid heart rate
• Confusion or disorientation
• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness

Brachycephalic breeds (bulldogs, pugs, shih tzus), overweight pets, seniors, and thick-coated breeds are at even higher risk.

What to Do Before You Reach the Vet

1. Get your pet into a shaded or air-conditioned space immediately
2. Begin cooling with lukewarm water (not ice-cold) using towels or a bath
3. Use a fan to promote evaporation
4. Offer small amounts of cool (not ice) water if your pet is alert
5. Call us on the way in so we can prepare for emergency treatment

Do NOT use ice water or immerse your pet in ice. This can cause shock and worsen the condition.

How We Treat Heat Stroke

At the clinic, we provide:

• IV fluids to cool internally and support circulation
• Oxygen therapy if needed
• Cooling methods like wetting fur and using fans
• Bloodwork to monitor for organ damage
• Hospitalization and monitoring in severe cases

The faster your pet is treated, the better the chance of recovery. Delays can result in long-term damage to the kidneys, liver, brain, or heart.

Prevention Tips

• Walk early in the morning or after sunset
• Always provide shade and fresh water
• NEVER leave pets in cars
• Keep brachycephalic breeds indoors during high heat
• Watch for early warning signs of overheating and stop activity immediately

When In Doubt, Call Us

Heat stroke is a true emergency—but it’s also entirely preventable. If your pet is panting heavily, sluggish, or showing signs of overheating, don’t wait. Call PetMed of Key West Veterinary Clinic in Dubuque immediately. We’re here to help your pets stay cool, safe, and healthy all summer long.