Heatstroke in Dogs: Signs, First Aid and Prevention
Heatstroke is the biggest summer threat to your dog. How do you recognize it, what should you do first, and how do you prevent it? A vet's guide for dog owners in Ankara.
Bulut Veterinary Clinic Medical Team
Reviewed by Mücahid Çiftçioğlu, DVM
Dogs can't sweat the way we do; they regulate body temperature mainly by panting. In hot weather that system is quickly overwhelmed. When body temperature rises out of control, the result is heatstroke — and it can become life-threatening within minutes.
In Ankara's dry summer heat, midday hours, parked cars and hot asphalt are serious risks for dogs. Here's how to recognize the signs, give first aid, and prevent it altogether.
Which dogs are most at risk?
- Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds: Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boxers
- Thick or double-coated breeds: Huskies, Golden Retrievers, Samoyeds
- Overweight, senior, or heart/respiratory-compromised dogs
- Puppies
- Outdoor dogs with limited access to water
Signs of heatstroke
Early on you'll see heavy, noisy panting, dark red gums, thick drool and restlessness. As it progresses: vomiting, diarrhea, staggering, weakness, confusion and seizures. Bluish gums and collapse mean the situation is critical.
First aid: do's and don'ts
- Move your dog to shade or a cool room immediately.
- Apply COOL (not ice-cold!) water — especially to the paw pads, armpits and groin.
- Don't wrap them in a wet towel and leave it — a warmed towel traps heat; keep refreshing the water instead.
- Offer small amounts of cool water to drink; don't force it.
- Do NOT use ice or ice water: it constricts blood vessels, slows heat loss and can deepen shock.
- Once you've started cooling, head to the vet without delay — even if your dog seems to recover.
Why see a vet even if they seem fine?
The real danger of heatstroke can appear hours later: kidney damage, clotting disorders and brain swelling can all develop with delay. At our clinic we assess these patients with blood work and keep them on IV fluids under observation when needed. If in doubt, call us — we're open 24/7.
Golden rules of prevention
- Walk early in the morning and late in the evening.
- Press the back of your hand to the asphalt for 5 seconds: if you can't stand it, neither can their paws.
- NEVER leave your dog in a car — even with windows open, the interior reaches lethal temperatures in minutes.
- Provide constant access to fresh, cool water.
- Skip intense exercise and fetch games during midday heat.
Frequently asked questions
How quickly does a parked car become dangerous?
Within minutes. Even on a 25°C day, the interior can exceed 40°C in half an hour — open windows make little difference. Never leave your dog in a parked car, even briefly.
Can cats get heatstroke too?
Yes, though it's rarer — cats seek shade on their own. Cats confined to balconies or rooms without water and shade are at risk, and a cat panting with an open mouth is always an emergency.
Related services
Suspect heatstroke? Don't wait — our clinic is open 24/7.
This article is for general information only and is not a substitute for a veterinary examination. Always consult your veterinarian about decisions concerning your pet's health.