Heat stroke in dogs remains a critical risk during hot weather, with about one fifth of affected cases proving life-threatening. Many pets face injuries from sores and burns on paw pads caused by direct, prolonged contact with asphalt in peak heat hours. The issue is not rare; high temperatures drive urgent visits to veterinary clinics in summer, as dogs often endure sun exposure more intensely than humans. Breeds with flattened faces, such as bulldogs, Pekingese, and boxers, are especially susceptible due to breathing difficulties, but any dog can suffer heat-related distress.
Veterinary centers like the University of Murcia Veterinary Clinical Hospital report that owners are often more aware of heat risks and that dogs may receive better care than in years past. Still, clinics see dehydrated dogs arriving every summer with unmistakable sunstroke signs. The main cause remains excessive exertion in extreme heat, though neglect by owners can also trigger incidents, such as leaving a dog in an unventilated car or on a sunlit balcony for extended periods, even when the weather feels oppressive.
How to prevent and prevent heat stroke in dogs
Several factors influence heat stroke risk, including breed, age, and any preexisting respiratory issues. The following guidance from the UMU Veterinary Hospital helps reduce danger for pets. Increase access to fresh water by adding more drinking spots around the home. Maintain cool, ventilated spaces and, when outdoors, carry a spray bottle to gently dampen the dog during walks in very hot conditions. Avoid intense activity during peak heat and long car trips without proper ventilation. If schedules allow, shift walks to early morning or late evening and seek shaded routes such as along rivers or green spaces while shortening walk durations to limit exposure. Never leave a dog alone in a sunlit room, patio, or a closed car.
Dogs are highly susceptible to hyperthermia, and failing to detect temperature rises promptly can be dangerous. Common signals of sunstroke include heavy panting after rest, loss of coordination, fainting, an extremely high body temperature, and more serious signs like vomiting, diarrhea, and potential seizures that can indicate organ failure.
The speed of decline is a decisive factor for a dog’s survival
In acute cases, rapid cooling is essential. Spraying warm water on the abdomen, head, and legs can help, but if severe symptoms appear, contact a veterinarian immediately and seek urgent care. A veterinary professional from the Murcian Veterinary Association emphasizes the urgency of prompt action when symptoms escalate.
During the hottest months, many dogs experience paw pad burns from asphalt contact, sometimes with pavement temperatures exceeding high thresholds. This is especially common in young dogs whose pads are still developing strength or those who spend too long on hot pavement. A practical guideline is the five-second test: if your hand would burn on the pavement after five seconds, avoid walking the dog on that surface. The recommended approach is to avoid outdoor walks during the hottest hours.
While burns to paw pads are not as dangerous as heatstroke, they are very painful and can become infected if not treated properly. Veterinary clinics address these burns with appropriate dressings, ointments, and protective wraps to promote healing. Recovery times vary with the injury’s severity but can take more than a week.