A veterinarian has issued an urgent warning to dog owners as the UK heatwave continues, revealing that many people are still following outdated heatstroke advice that could put their pets in danger. The expert, known online as Things Can Only Get Vetter, explained that dangerous myths surrounding heatstroke treatment spread every summer despite potentially deadly consequences.
Outdated Advice Puts Dogs at Risk
In a video shared online, the vet stated: "These heatstroke treatment mistakes kill dogs every summer." One of the biggest misconceptions is that dogs should only be cooled using tepid or room-temperature water. The vet insisted this advice is outdated and urged owners to begin cooling their dog immediately using cold water before transporting them to the vet.
"The risk factor for internal organ damage and death is the amount of time the dog spends overheated," the vet explained. Therefore, first aid at home is absolutely crucial. For younger dogs, full immersion in cold water can rapidly reduce body temperature. For older dogs, hosing them down or pouring cold water over them is recommended instead.
Effective Cooling Techniques
The vet emphasized that the most important thing is to help cold water evaporate from the dog's body, as this removes heat far more effectively. Using a fan whenever possible speeds up the cooling process. "A breeze is gonna help take that evaporating water away," they explained.
However, one popular heatwave trick prompted the strongest warning. The vet urged owners to stop covering overheated dogs in cold wet towels, as this can actually trap heat against the body. "That creates an insulating layer. It traps all the heat. It can make things far worse," they said.
Seek Emergency Veterinary Care
Once owners have started cooling their dog, the next step should always be getting emergency veterinary treatment as quickly as possible. Heatstroke in dogs can quickly become life-threatening, with a mortality rate between 34 and 64 percent. At the vet, overheated dogs can receive fluids and emergency care to reduce the risk of organ failure and other complications.
Commenting on the post, one owner said: "At 70k, my dogs do not go out before 11pm at night for walks in the warmer months. Thankfully, we live in an old stone house so it's very cool in the heat." Another user added: "Massive thank you for providing this life saving advice! We really appreciate you sharing our work and helping owners protect their pets." A third user said: "Been trying to spread this for two years now. Thank you."
