Heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that’s brought on by a sudden rise in body temperature. It commonly affects pets who are exercised outside on a hot day or are carelessly left in a car or conservatory during warm weather. Our emergency vets see hundreds of cases of heat stroke in dogs every year and, tragically, many of these prove to be fatal.
Spotting the signs of heat stroke early, and seeking emergency treatment, can massively increase your dog’s chance of survival.
In the early stages of heat stroke, your dog is likely to appear restless and distressed. They may also pant heavily and drool. As their condition worsens they will begin to lose coordination and eventually collapse. It’s worth noting that normal rectal temperature for dogs is around 38.6°C (101.5°F) to 38.9°C (102°F) and anything above this is abnormal.
Read our advice articles below, all written by vets, for help and support on heat stroke and some of the conditions relating to it.
