The RSPCA has issued an urgent warning to dog owners in Wales as temperatures are forecast to reach 37C this week. Behaviours often mistaken as normal, such as panting, may actually be early signs of heatstroke in pets.
15 Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs
According to the RSPCA, the following symptoms should never be ignored: collapse, confusion or disorientation, dehydration, drooling, increased heart rate, muscle spasms, noisy breathing, panting, red gums and tongue, seizures, vomiting and diarrhoea, weakness and lethargy. Panting is a key warning sign; although many owners assume it is normal in hot weather, it should always be taken seriously. Move the dog to a cool, shaded area and provide fresh water. If not kept cool, more serious signs like noisy or difficult breathing can develop quickly, especially in flat-faced breeds.
Dogs Most at Risk
The charity stresses that some dogs are more vulnerable to heatstroke, including those with health conditions affecting the respiratory system, thick coats, puppies and senior dogs, and brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds such as Bulldogs and Pugs, which cannot pant effectively due to their shorter snouts.
Emergency Cooling Steps
The RSPCA advises: "Cool first, transport second." Stop all exercise and move the dog to a cooler, shaded environment. Pour cool water over the body, avoiding the head, and concentrate on the neck, stomach, and thighs. Submerge the dog in cool water if available, but not for unconscious, elderly, or unwell dogs. Create a breeze with a fan. Do not place damp towels over the dog's body as this can trap heat; instead, place wet towels beneath the dog and re-wet them frequently. Once cooled, transport the dog to the nearest vet in a cool, well-ventilated vehicle, calling ahead to inform them of the urgency. The RSPCA warns: "The longer the dog is overheated, the more damage it can cause to their health, possibly even killing them."
