Vets Now has reported a sharp increase in heatstroke emergencies among dogs as the UK experiences a warm spell. Principal Vet Sadie Spencer urges owners to perform a simple five-second pavement test before walking their pets. If the pavement feels too hot to the back of your hand, it is too hot for your dog's paws.
Why Dogs Are Vulnerable to Heatstroke
Unlike humans, dogs cannot cool themselves by sweating; they rely on panting, which is often insufficient. Heatstroke can be fatal, especially for flat-faced breeds like bulldogs, pugs, and shih tzus, as well as overweight dogs, older dogs, and those with thick double coats. Spencer noted that a dog can go from happily playing to a life-threatening emergency in minutes.
When Is It Safe to Walk?
According to Vets Now, it is generally safe to walk dogs at temperatures up to 19°C. Above this, the risk increases. The UK's sudden weather changes mean dogs need weeks to acclimatise, making warm spells particularly dangerous. Owners should walk dogs in the coolest parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.
Signs of Heatstroke in Dogs
Spencer identified key symptoms: heavy panting or drooling, vomiting or diarrhoea, unsteady legs, glassy eyes, a racing heart, and excessive thirst. If a dog shows these signs, owners should move them to a cool, shaded area, dampen them with cool (not ice-cold) water, offer small amounts of water, and contact a vet immediately.
"Don't wait to see if they improve," Spencer said. "Start cooling them down and call us on the way - the sooner treatment begins, the better their chances. If you're ever unsure, get in touch with your vet."
Additional Precautions
Heatstroke can also occur when dogs are left in poorly ventilated areas like cars, even for a few minutes. Owners should never leave dogs alone in vehicles. The Met Office has also issued alerts for coastal areas, where heat can be intense.
