Heatstroke in Pets

Why heatstroke is different here

Dar es Salaam’s heat and humidity mean that pets can overheat within minutes, even on an ordinary walk. Dogs cannot sweat efficiently; they rely on panting to lose heat, and in humid air panting works far less well. When the body temperature climbs beyond what it can manage, organs begin to suffer — and heatstroke can kill even after cooling has started.

Heatstroke is a true emergency. Cool your pet immediately and call us while you do it, rather than waiting to see whether they improve.

Warning signs

Heatstroke progresses quickly. Early signs can turn into collapse within a short time.

• Heavy, frantic or noisy panting that does not settle
• Thick drooling, or frothy saliva
• Bright red gums, tongue or eyes
• Skin that feels hot to the touch
• Staggering, weakness, wobbling or confusion
• Vomiting or diarrhoea, sometimes bloody
• Collapse, tremors or seizures

What to do

What not to do

Do not use ice or immerse your pet in ice-cold water — rapid extreme cooling can constrict blood vessels, trap heat and cause shivering that pushes the temperature back up. Do not leave your pet unattended during cooling. Do not give human fever or pain medicines, and do not assume recovery is complete when the panting eases.

Never, under any circumstances, leave a pet in a parked car. Even with windows open, a car can reach dangerous temperatures within minutes.

What to tell us when you call

Tell us how long your pet was exposed to heat, how they are behaving now, whether they are conscious and able to stand, and whether they have vomited. Mention their age, breed and weight, and any conditions such as heart or breathing problems.

If you are not sure whether it is heatstroke, call anyway. Acting early is always safer than waiting.

Prevention

Walk your dog in the early morning or evening, never in the heat of the day, and test the pavement with your hand first. Always provide shade and constant access to fresh water. Avoid heavy exercise in humid weather, and never leave a pet outdoors without shelter.

Take extra care with flat-faced breeds such as bulldogs and pugs, with very young, elderly or overweight pets, and with animals that have heart or respiratory disease — they overheat far more easily. Call us immediately if you see heavy panting, red gums or any wobbliness after heat exposure.