What are the signs of heat stroke in dogs?

Overheating (hyperthermia) begins as heat stress and progresses to heat exhaustion and then, if left untreated, to heat stroke, which can be fatal for your dog. From mild to severe, the signs to watch out for include: heavy panting, slowed pace, shade seeking, intense thirst, red gums, rapid heart rate, rapid/laboured breathing, anxiety and confusion, staggering or falling, fainting, vomiting/diarrhea and seizures. If you are concerned your dog may have heat stroke, contact your veterinarian immediately.

What are the best ways to prevent heat exhaustion/heat stroke in dogs?

On very hot days, try to limit your walks to when it is cooler out, such as before sunrise and after sunset. Always bring along plenty of water and keep your dog hydrated, offering water at the first signs of panting. Rest and walk in the shade as much as possible, and stop at the earliest signs or overheating (panting or slowing down) to wait until your dog cools off. Do not tie your dog in the sun or leave them in a yard without any shade, and NEVER leave your dog in a hot car. The temperature in a hot car can climb above 48u00b0C (120u00b0F) in less than 20 minutes; this can lead to heat exhaustion and even death.

What's the best way to treat heat exhaustion in dogs?

If you are concerned your dog may have heat exhaustion, here are some steps you can take to help alleviate the symptoms until you can get your dog to the vet: move to a cool, shaded area, encourage them to drink plenty of water, and gently hose them down or submerge your dog in cool water. Check their temperature every 15 minutes, and keep cooling them down to 39.3u00b0c/102.5u00b0F, being careful not to go any lower. Transport them to a veterinarian while keeping the dog cool with water and ice packs.