Stages of Heat Stroke in Dogs

Heat stroke in dogs can progress from heavy panting and weakness to confusion, collapse, seizures, organ injury, and death, so treat it as an emergency. A dog may worsen quickly even after moving away from the heat. Do not wait for every sign to appear before contacting an emergency veterinary service.

In an early stage, the dog may pant intensely, drool, seek shade, seem restless, or have hot skin and red or unusually pale gums. As overheating continues, weakness, wobbliness, vomiting, diarrhoea, or a change in awareness can develop. In advanced heat stroke, the dog may stagger, collapse, become unresponsive, bleed, or have a seizure. Internal damage can affect the brain, kidneys, gut, blood clotting, and other organs; serious effects may not be obvious immediately.

Heat exhaustion is a less severe heat-related illness, but it can progress to heat stroke. A rectal temperature is not required to recognise danger, and a normal-looking temperature after cooling does not rule out injury.

Move the dog into shade or air conditioning and call a veterinary clinic or emergency service while you act. Begin gentle cooling with cool, wet towels or water over the body, concentrating on the neck, chest, belly, and inner thighs; replace warm towels so they do not trap heat. Use airflow if available. Offer small amounts of water only if the dog is alert and swallowing normally. Never force water, put an unresponsive dog in a bath, or use ice or very cold water, which can restrict blood flow. Transport promptly, keeping the car cool, and tell the clinic when the overheating began and what cooling was attempted.

Seek emergency veterinary care immediately for heavy or persistent panting after heat exposure, weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea, confusion, trouble walking, collapse, seizures, bleeding, or reduced responsiveness. A puppy, older dog, overweight dog, flat-faced breed, or dog with heart or breathing disease may become unwell with less heat exposure. Keep monitoring during travel because deterioration can continue after the dog appears calmer. Veterinary treatment may include controlled cooling, monitoring, oxygen, blood tests, and IV fluid therapy.

Ask which signs suggest organ injury, how long your dog should be monitored, whether blood tests or repeat checks are needed, and which activity or heat precautions are appropriate during recovery. Confirm which symptoms should prompt an immediate return to the clinic.