What are the signs of heatstroke?
At first, the pet will seem uncomfortable, panting excessively, and appear restless, with a higher breathing and heart rate. If the symptoms worsen, the dog may lose their sense of awareness and coordination. They may stagger around, appear very anxious, or stay lying down (sometimes even on their back), unwilling or unable to get up. Excessive salivation and vomiting may occur. The mucous membranes of the mouth, which are normally deep red, may gradually turn a bluish colour due to insufficient oxygenation.
If your dog is in the early stages of heatstroke, you can take action whilst preparing to get them to the vet:
- move them immediately to a cool, shaded spot
- start cooling them down using wet cloths - initially with room-temperature water, then gradually cooler water - on their neck, armpits and groin area
- you can also wet their ears and paws by sponging them with cool water
- offer them something to drink, but don't force water into their mouth
Take your pet to the nearest vet immediately. Cooling them down is a form of first aid, but it's not enough on its own to prevent complications associated with heatstroke.
