Summer can be a great time for pets to have fun, but it also brings disturbances caused by extreme heat. The reason lies in how animals adapt to sudden temperature changes, which differs from human responses and is not as efficient.
Dogs lack sweat glands and primarily cool themselves through breath and through certain areas of their skin, such as paw pads and portions of the belly. In very hot conditions, these cooling mechanisms may be insufficient, putting a pet at risk of heatstroke, a situation that can be deadly if not addressed promptly.
How heat affects dogs and how their bodies respond
Heat-related stress tends to affect older dogs, very young ones, and those with respiratory issues. Breeds with shorter snouts may be more vulnerable due to breathing difficulties. Dark coats can absorb more heat, increasing the risk of overheating.
There is heightened health alert due to the heatwave in the region.
heat stroke symptoms
How can you tell if a pet is experiencing hyperthermia? Signs include the following:
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Body temperature above 42ºC, with the normal range typically between 38ºC and 39ºC.
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Increased heart rate and notable fatigue or listlessness.
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Skin taking on a bluish tint due to reduced oxygen in the blood.
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Muscle tremors and marked weakness.
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Small red patches on the skin may appear.
These are often the initial signs, but without timely intervention, the pet can slip into shock, lose consciousness, or worse.
Tips for cooling a home without air conditioning
How to deal with heat stroke
If a dog shows signs of heat stroke, seek veterinary help immediately. If that isn’t possible, consider these practical steps to stabilize the pet in the early moments:
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The priority is to reduce the animal’s temperature to below 42ºC as quickly as possible.
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Move the pet to a cooler area, preferably shaded, whether indoors or outdoors, and avoid trapping it in a hot vehicle.
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Offer small amounts of fresh water regularly. Do not use icy water or immerse the pet completely, and dampen the body with lukewarm towels rather than soaking them.
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Hydration is essential; ensure constant access to clean water to prevent dehydration.
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Use a fan and consider gentle cooling by applying cool, damp cloths to the limbs and neck.
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Gently massage the legs to support circulation.
Even if the pet appears to recover, a veterinary check is crucial since internal organs may be affected.
Creating a simple homemade cooling setup
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