Dog owners have been told to keep an eye out for five signs their pet may be suffering from heatstroke. Brits are braced for 37C heatwave this coming week and so too are their pets as experts outline the five signs your dog is suffering. MoneySuperMarket has partnered with veterinary nurse Zoe Blake to outline the crucial signs your dog may be suffering in the warm weather.
Zoe said: “Working as a veterinary nurse, I’ve seen firsthand how dangerous heatstroke can be for dogs during warmer weather. Many cases are entirely preventable with early awareness and simple precautions, which is why recognising the signs and acting quickly is so important.”
Gum colour, panting and changes to a dog’s stool can all be signs of heatstroke.
Excessive panting and restlessness is the first of five signs to keep an eye on. Zoe explained: “The main symptom initially is excessive panting, and dogs will become agitated and restless. Dogs rely mainly on panting to regulate their body temperature, meaning they can overheat far more quickly than many people realise.”
Another possible heatstroke sign is heavy drooling or difficulty breathing. “As heatstroke develops, dogs may begin drooling far more than normal or appear to struggle with breathing,” Zoe said. “Flat-faced breeds, older dogs and overweight pets can be particularly vulnerable.”
Wobbliness could also be a sign of heatstroke, with dogs possibly “unsteady on their legs” and “confused” noted as potential signs of suffering.
Serious cases of heatstroke can be identified by the colour of a dog’s gums. Zoe told pet owners they should keep an eye on the shading if they are concerned about their pet’s health in the heatwave.
She said: “One of the most serious warning signs is a noticeable change in the colour of your dog’s tongue or gums. Their tongue and gums may turn blue/purple or bright red, which can indicate poor oxygenation and circulatory compromise.”
Severe heatstroke can be seen if your pet is vomiting, passed out, or suffering from a seizure. Zoe said: “In severe cases, heatstroke can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, collapse or even seizures. It will affect every system in the dog’s nervous system, so they should be seen by a vet as soon as possible for appropriate care.”
