Preventing heat stroke in dogs (UK summer guide)
UK summer heat stroke is preventable — walk early/late, never leave dogs in cars, use 5-second pavement test, and cool with damp towels at the first signs.
In the next 60 seconds
- Walk before 8am or after 7pm in summer.
- 5-second pavement test — back of hand on surface for 5 seconds; if too hot, too hot for paws.
- Carry water on every walk.
- Provide shade in garden.
- Cool damp towels on belly, paws, groin if dog seems hot.
- Cool damp coat (not wet wrap).
Recognise the signs
- Heavy panting, drooling
- Bright red gums
- Seeking cool surfaces
- Reluctance to walk further
- Wobbliness — emergency, see dog-heat-stroke
First aid steps
- Walk before 8am or after 7pm in summer.
- 5-second pavement test — back of hand on surface for 5 seconds; if too hot, too hot for paws.
- Carry water on every walk.
- Provide shade in garden.
- Cool damp towels on belly, paws, groin if dog seems hot.
- Cool damp coat (not wet wrap).
Do NOT
- Never leave a dog in a parked car, even briefly.
- Do not exercise hard in heat.
- Do not assume green grass is cool — it can still be 35°C+ on hot days.
- Do not use ice baths.
When to phone the vet immediately
- Wobbliness, vomiting, glassy stare — see dog-heat-stroke; emergency.
What you'll need
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Pressure-activated gel mat. No fridge needed. Place in shaded garden area.
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Soak in cold water before fitting. Useful for unavoidable warm walks.
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Prevention
- Time of day matters more than weather forecast.
- Pavement test always.
- Carry water, collapsible bowl, cooling vest if prone.
- Brachycephalic breeds — extra caution from 20°C upwards.
- Acclimatise gradually — first hot weeks of summer are highest risk.
Breed-specific notes
- Highest risk: Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs, Boxers, Shih Tzus, thick-coated breeds, very young, very old, very overweight.
Frequently asked questions
What temperature is too hot?
Depends on coat, breed, humidity. Brachycephalic breeds struggle from 20°C; most dogs need caution above 24°C. Humidity multiplies risk.
Cooling coat or damp towel?
Either works — damp towels reapplied are very effective. Cooling coats convenient on the move.
Can dogs swim safely in hot weather?
Yes, with safety considerations (water intoxication, blue-green algae, drowning risk). Brief swims with breaks beat long fetch sessions.
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