24/06/2026
With this weather hitting well above 30ºC, please remember that no dog died from missing a walk, but many dogs have died from heatstroke because they were exercised in the heat!
The reason vets see so many cases of heatstroke is because dogs simply struggle to cool down by panting alone - they don't sweat and they're wearing a fur coat to keep them warm!
If your dog likes swimming that's a great alternative to walking in the hot weather.
Fortunately Moose loves swimming, so we took him in the early morning while it was still (relatively) cool!
I've treated many dogs with heat stroke and it is often fatal, which is heartbreaking for the owners.
☀️ Dogs die quickly in hot cars - even if they're only left for a few minutes!
☀️Dogs often get heat stroke on hot walks
☀️Animals can get heatstroke if they have no access to cool water
10 times as many dogs present for veterinary care for heatstroke after being exercised in hot weather than present following being entrapped in a car.
Flat-faced breeds such as pugs or French bulldogs are at an even bigger risk of heatstroke.
❌Do not leave animals in hot cars
❌ Ensure they aren't locked in rooms with no ventilation like conservatories
❌ Provide access to plenty of cool, clean water
❌Do not exercise in the heat
If a dog is collapsed from heatstroke you should:
✅Cool them down by pouring cold water on them
✅ Travel to the vets in a cold, air-conditioned car
For more info on avoiding, recognising and treating heatstroke, this article from Veterinary Voices UK has all you need to know ⬇️
Cool, Icy, Cold or Tepid? What's Best for Heat Stroke?
https://www.vetvoices.co.uk/post/cool-icy-cold-or-tepid
