Dogs Die in Hot Cars

A dog heatstroke happens when normal body mechanisms can’t keep the body’s temperature in a safe range.  A moderate dog heatstroke  will not always cause complicating health problems.  Even so  heat stroke in dogs should be considered a highly dangerous condition.  For a severe dog heatstroke, transport your pet to the veterinarian immediately.

Dogs can’t tell you when their temperature rises, but they can tend to look hot or as if they’re wilting, just like humans do.  We know dogs do not tolerate heat well, so it’s our responsibility to ensure that our pets have sufficient shelter from the sun, adequate water to drink, and a way of cooling off when the summer temperature rises.  Dogs who suffer from heatstroke once, often increase their risk for getting it again and steps must be taken to prevent it on hot or  humid days.   Dogs can’t sweat all over their bodies the way humans do, and they rely on panting to cool their bodies. 

When exposed to high temperatures without relief, or when exercised in hot weather, all dogs are susceptible to heat stroke, even death.  Elderly and overweight dogs, particularly  breeds such as English Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers, are especially vulnerable to the heat.  Short-faced breeds, such as Boxers, Pugs and Pekingese, and dogs with heavy coats, are at particular risk.

Dogs can often be seen in cars left there while the owner goes into  a store.  I have seen dogs locked in cars and I always try to keep an eye on how long the owner is away. 

Please take care of your dog this summer and keep an eye out for others that might be at risk.