All heat-related conditions are serious and preventable. Unfortunately, it’s alarming how many pets suffer from heat-related illnesses during this season. Summer brings a perfect storm of risks as the sun intensifies and temperatures climb, increasing the chances of heat-related issues. These conditions include heatstroke, burnt paw pads, sunburns, and even skin cancer. The average cost of heatstroke claims is $1,591.

If heat and sun are so dangerous, won’t dogs just get out of the sun on their own?

Yes and no. When the sun gets too intense, dogs will naturally seek shade. But it may not be soon enough. In addition to risking sunburn by spending too much time in direct sunlight, they’re also at risk of heatstroke. If heatstroke sets in, they may not be physically able to move to shade on their own. That’s why supervision, water access, and lots of shaded areas are essential for your dog’s outdoor safety.

Protect your pets and your wallet by keeping them indoors during the hottest part of the day. And continue reading to learn everything you need to know about heat-related illnesses in cats and dogs.

What You Need To Know

• Pet Accidents Increase During Summer
• What Is Heatstroke?
• How Does Heatstroke Effect My Pet?
• When Does Heatstroke Occur?
• What Pets Are At Risk for Heatstroke?
• What Are The Signs of Heatstroke?
• Administering Heatstroke First Aid
• How is Heatstroke Treated by Vets?
• What Are The Outcomes of Heatstroke?
• Burnt Paw Pads
• Sunburns & Skin Cancer
• What Can I Do to Prevent Heat-Related Illness?
• Where Can I Learn More?
• References

Pet Accidents Increase During Summer

Summer is not just a season of fun, it’s also a time when the risks for pets rise sharply. The combination of soaring temperatures and increased outdoor activity exposes our pets to various heat-related illnesses. These conditions range from mild but painful issues like burnt paw pads to life-threatening emergencies such as heatstroke, sunburns, and even skin cancer.

What Is Heatstroke?

 

One of the most common and dangerous heat-related illness for dogs is heat stroke, which occurs with as little as 3-degree increase in a dog’s internal body temperature is enough to cause heatstroke. A dog’s normal internal temperature typically ranges from 100°F to 102.5°F (38.3°C to 39.2°C). Temperatures above 103°F (39.4°C) are considered abnormal and can indicate fever, while temperatures of 105°F (40.5°C) or higher are a sign of heatstroke and require immediate veterinary attention. Heatstroke can cause damage to the brain and every major organ system in the body.

Heatstroke (technical term: hyperthermia) can result from exposure to high environmental temperature (nonpyrogenic; non-exertional heatstroke) or from strenuous exercise.

 

Heatstroke can develop in minutes and be fatal within an hour. Dogs can only cool down by panting or blood vessel expansion, making them more prone to overheating. Unfortunately, they don’t get the same sense we do when feeling sick from dehydration and heat exhaustion. It’s essential to notice signs early to prevent prolonged symptoms and severe damage, which depends on how high their body temperature gets and for how long.

How Does Heatstroke Effect My Pet?

Heatstroke is a fast-acting and potentially fatal condition that can damage nearly every major organ in a dog’s body. When a dog’s temperature rises above normal, the heart starts working harder, and blood flow to the skin increases as the body desperately tries to cool itself down. But as heatstroke progresses, this effort can fail, leading to reduced blood pressure, decreased circulation, and organ damage.

Every major system is impacted:

• Heart and Lungs: As the body struggles to cool down, the heart has to pump faster to compensate. Over time, this increased strain can cause heart failure, which is often fatal if not treated immediately. Excessive panting, the dog’s primary way of cooling down, can lead to fluid build-up in the lungs (pulmonary edema), making it even harder for the dog to breathe and potentially leading to respiratory failure.
• Brain: When the body overheats, the brain begins to swell (cerebral edema). This swelling causes confusion, weakness, and can escalate into seizures, coma, or permanent brain damage. If left unchecked, heatstroke can cause irreversible neurological damage, severely impacting your dog’s long-term quality of life.
• Kidneys and Liver: Heatstroke reduces blood flow to vital organs like the kidneys and liver. Decreased blood flow means these organs don’t get the oxygen they need, causing tissue damage or even complete organ failure. Even if a pet survives heatstroke, they may face permanent kidney or liver damage, requiring long-term treatment or monitoring.
• Gastrointestinal Tract: The gut is particularly vulnerable to heat. During heatstroke, the lining of the stomach and intestines can become damaged, leading to vomiting, diarrhea (sometimes bloody), and in severe cases, the sloughing of the intestinal lining. This can cause bacterial infections and sepsis, which may be fatal if untreated.

If heatstroke is not caught early, the damage can be widespread and often irreversible. Left untreated, heatstroke can be fatal within minutes to hours. Immediate veterinary care is critical to your dog’s survival and recovery.

When Does Heatstroke Occur?

Heatstroke can strike in various situations, and it’s not always caused by extreme heat alone. Several factors contribute to a dangerous rise in your pet’s body temperature, and it can happen faster than many realize. Here are the most common scenarios in which heatstroke occurs:

1. Strenuous activity in hot weather
   Physical exertion on a hot day can quickly overwhelm your dog’s ability to cool down. Whether it’s running, hiking, or even prolonged playtime, the more energy they exert, the harder it becomes for them to regulate their body temperature. Dogs can’t sweat like humans; they rely on panting to cool off, which is less effective during intense exercise, making them more prone to overheating.
2. High humidity, even with lower temperatures
   Humidity plays a huge role in your dog’s risk of heatstroke. Even on days that aren’t blisteringly hot, high humidity levels can prevent your dog from cooling down. When the air is thick with moisture, panting becomes less effective because the moisture in the air reduces the rate at which sweat (or in the case of dogs, moisture from panting) evaporates. This makes it harder for dogs to release excess heat, putting them at greater risk of overheating.
3. Lack of play breaks
   Continuous play without frequent breaks is a recipe for heatstroke. Dogs often don’t know when to stop, especially when they’re excited or playing with other dogs. Without regular pauses to cool down, rehydrate, and rest in the shade, their internal body temperature can rise to dangerous levels. It’s essential to give your pet plenty of time to recover between play sessions, especially in the summer heat.
4. Insufficient access to water
   Hydration is critical in keeping a dog’s body temperature in check. Without enough fresh water, dogs can’t cool themselves properly, leading to dehydration and a higher risk of heatstroke. On hot days, dogs should have access to plenty of water at all times, whether they’re outside playing or inside resting. If they’re panting excessively, they need even more water to stay hydrated and regulate their temperature.
5. Being left in a hot car or home
   This is one of the most dangerous and preventable causes of heatstroke. The temperature inside a car can rise dramatically in just a few minutes, even with the windows cracked. On a 70°F (21°C) day, the temperature inside a car can reach 104°F (40°C) in less than 30 minutes. In these conditions, heatstroke can develop rapidly and often proves fatal. Similarly, homes without proper ventilation or cooling can become stiflingly hot, especially during summer, putting pets at the same risk if left alone for too long. To read more about the dangers of hot cars and what to do if you see a dog suffering in a car, read here.

What Pets Are At Risk for Heatstroke?

Heatstroke doesn’t affect all pets equally. Certain breeds, conditions, and environmental factors can significantly increase the risk. Understanding which pets are most vulnerable helps prevent this life-threatening condition.

Who’s Most at Risk for Heatstroke?

1. Dogs Are More Susceptible Than Cats
   While all pets can experience heatstroke, dogs are generally more affected than cats due to their more active nature, increased time outdoors, and reliance on panting to cool off.
2. Brachycephalic (Short-Snouted) Breeds
   Flat-faced breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, and French Bulldogs are at a particularly high risk. These dogs have airway abnormalities that make breathing difficult, and their shortened noses reduce their ability to cool down efficiently through panting. Their respiratory systems are like a narrow maze, and in the summer heat, they must work much harder to take in enough air to cool their bodies.
3. Large, Arctic, and Thick-Coated Breeds
   Breeds like Malamutes, Huskies, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Chow Chows, which are adapted to cold climates, struggle to handle summer temperatures. Their thick, insulating fur traps heat, making it harder for them to stay cool. For pets with heavy coats, summer grooming or shaving is recommended to reduce their risk of overheating.
4. Older Dogs and Dogs with Pre-Existing Conditions
   Older pets, as well as those with underlying health issues, are more vulnerable to heatstroke. Conditions such as laryngeal paralysis, airway masses, and collapsed tracheas can interfere with their ability to pant effectively, leading to an increased risk of hyperthermia in the heat. Obese pets are also at a higher risk, as excess fat retains heat and places additional strain on their cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
5. Fair-Skinned and Short-Coated Breeds
   Pets with fair skin or short, light-colored coats, such as white Boxers or Dalmatians, are at risk of sunburn and skin cancer from prolonged sun exposure. Their short coats offer little protection from harmful UV rays, leaving them more vulnerable to sun-related heat illnesses.
6. Pets Living in Humid Climates
   High humidity poses a serious risk, even when temperatures aren’t excessively high. In humid environments, the air is saturated with moisture, making it difficult for pets to cool down through panting. Without the ability to evaporate moisture efficiently, their body temperature can rise quickly, putting them at higher risk of heatstroke.
7. Working Dogs and Pets Without Proper Breaks
   Dogs that exercise, work, or play outdoors without sufficient rest, shade, or water are highly susceptible to heatstroke. Whether it’s a day of hiking, agility training, or even simple play in the yard, continuous activity in the heat can be dangerous if pets aren’t given the chance to cool down.

What Are The Signs of Heatstroke?

Heatstroke can quickly become life-threatening, so it’s essential to recognize the warning signs in your pet. If you notice any of the following symptoms, take immediate action to cool your pet and seek veterinary care.

Common Signs of Heatstroke:

• Heavy panting, rapid breathing, shallowed or labored breathing
• Excessive drooling
• Bright red gums and tongue which may later turn pale, bluish or even white as the condition worsens
• Increased heart rate
• Lethargy, difficulty staying balanced, appearing disoriented or unsteady on their feet
• Muscle tremors, shaking, or seizures
• Hot skin & signs of dehydration like tacky gyms or sunken eyes
• Uncontrolled urination or defecation
• Collapse or unconsciousness

Administering Heatstroke First Aid

If your pet shows signs of heatstroke, immediate action is essential. Follow these steps to provide first aid while seeking veterinary help.

Steps to Take:

• Move to a cool area immediately. Take your pet out of the heat and into a shaded or air-conditioned space to begin cooling them down.
• Use cool (not cold) water to gradually lower body temperature. Pour water on base of neck, paw pads, inner groin. Avoid their face.
• Do not wrap a wet towel around them as it will trap the heat trying to escape
• Keep air circulating: Use a fan to blow air over your pet, which will help cool them down more effectively. We always travel with one of these travel fans (here & here).  If inside, make sure the AC is on.
• Offer water. Encourage your pet to drink small amounts of water, but do not force them if they are unable or unwilling to drink. We always have a travel water container or collapsible bowl on hand.
• Avoid ice baths. Never use ice or extremely cold water, as this can constrict blood vessels and worsen the situation.
• Wet the surrounding area: Wetting the area around your pet (e.g., ground or surfaces) can help lower the ambient temperature.
• Apply alcohol pads to your dog’s paw pads to dilate pores and increase perspiration. We keep these in our travel first aid kits.
• Monitor body temperature. If possible, take their temperature. If temperature exceeds 105°F, continue cooling until it drops to 103°F. This is our favorite noninvasive pet thermometer.
• Seek immediate veterinary care. If there’s no improvement within 10 minutes, take your pet to the vet immediately.

How is Heatstroke Treated by Vets?

When you bring your pet to the vet or an emergency animal hospital, the veterinary team will first evaluate the severity of the heatstroke before initiating urgent care. Heatstroke treatment can be quite involved and may require extended hospital stays.

The following treatments are commonly used:

• Emergency Cooling Measures: If your pet’s body temperature remains elevated, immediate steps will be taken to bring it down.
• Intravenous (IV) Fluids: IV fluids are administered to combat dehydration, manage shock, and aid in lowering the internal body temperature.
• Oxygen Therapy: Heatstroke often leads to oxygen deprivation, poor circulation, or breathing difficulties, so providing extra oxygen is essential, especially for brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds.
• Anesthesia and Airway Support: In severe cases where pets are struggling to breathe or are unconscious, anesthesia and intubation may be necessary to secure the airway.
• Gastric Protectants & Anti-Nausea Medications: Pets suffering from vomiting or diarrhea may receive medications to protect the stomach and prevent nausea, as the gastrointestinal tract can be severely affected.
• Antibiotics: To prevent or treat secondary infections like sepsis (blood infection), antibiotics may be administered.
• Pain Management: Pain relief is provided to keep your pet comfortable during treatment.
• Cardiac Medications: If the heart is affected, medications to stabilize cardiac function may be required.
• Blood Tests: Regular testing is done to assess dehydration levels, clotting ability, organ function, and the pet’s overall response to treatment.
• Blood or Plasma Transfusions: If there are issues with clotting, a blood or plasma transfusion may be necessary.
• Intensive Care Monitoring: Continued monitoring and treatment in an intensive care unit is often required to ensure your pet’s condition stabilizes.

What Are The Outcomes of Heatstroke?

Heatstroke can have devastating effects on nearly every organ system in the body, including the heart, central nervous system, gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, liver, and coagulation system. Once the body temperature rises above 109°F, irreversible damage can occur. Unfortunately, the prognosis for dogs diagnosed with heatstroke is often guarded to poor, with the overall mortality rate around 50%.

Most fatalities happen within the first 24 hours, primarily due to multi-organ failure or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Factors such as hypoglycemia, prolonged clotting times, elevated creatinine levels 24 hours after hospital admission, delayed medical attention beyond 90 minutes, seizures, and obesity significantly increase the risk of death.

Early intervention is critical to improving outcomes. Rapid cooling measures and immediate supportive care are essential to combat the various complications of heatstroke and prevent long-term damage. However, even with prompt treatment, the inflammatory and hemostatic damage makes recovery extremely difficult.

Burnt Paw Pads

As summer heats up, it’s crucial to remember that our pets can suffer from more than just heatstroke. One often-overlooked danger is burnt paw pads. Dogs might not vocalize their discomfort or even attempt to escape hot surfaces, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t in pain. Their paw pads are especially sensitive to extreme heat, and just because the pavement feels tolerable to us doesn’t mean it’s safe for them.

Here’s how you can protect your dog during summer outings:

1. Conduct a Heat Test: Place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
2. Choose Grass Over Pavement: Opt for grassy areas whenever possible to reduce the risk of burns.
3. Walk During Cooler Hours: Early mornings and late evenings are the best times to take your dog out for a walk.
4. Stick to Shaded Areas

Be Cautious of Other Hot Surfaces:

• Dogs riding in the back of a vehicle can also suffer burns from hot surfaces. Consider covering the cargo area to provide shade.
• Hot sand can also lead to burnt paw pads, so be mindful when walking on the beach.

Signs of Burnt Paw Pads:

• Limping or reluctance to walk
• Discolored or darker pads
• Excessive licking of their feet
• Blisters or redness
• Torn or missing parts of the pads

If your dog suffers burns, rinse their paws with cold water or apply a cold compress.

Remember: Burnt paw pads can be very painful and may take time to heal. Burns can become infected, so consult your veterinarian if you notice concerning symptoms.

Sunburns & Skin Cancer

Sunburns in Dogs

Sunburn is a frequent issue for dogs exposed to the sun for extended periods. Like humans, dogs are vulnerable to ultraviolet (UV) rays, especially during peak sunlight hours. Those most at risk include breeds with short or thin fur, low levels of melanin, and hairless varieties. Sunburn can lead to acute discomfort and long-term health risks, making prevention essential for pet care.

Sensitive Breeds Include:

• Dogo Argentino
• White Bulldog
• White Boxer
• Dalmatian
• Beagle
• Whippet
• Hairless breeds, such as Chinese Crested
• Dogs with conditions causing coat thinning (e.g., flea infestations, fungal infections)
• Pets with chronic skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis
• Dogs with areas of scar tissue or those that have undergone surgery leaving skin exposed
• Dogs with autoimmune diseases, which may worsen with sun exposure

Symptoms of Sunburn in Dogs

Sunburn symptoms typically emerge within an hour of exposure and peak around three days later. Common signs include reddened, sensitive skin, with more severe cases potentially resulting in inflammation and blistering. Areas most affected include the ears, nose, and skin around the eyes. Additional severe symptoms may encompass weakness, fainting, or shock due to heat exhaustion.

Key Symptoms:

1. Reddened Skin: Affected areas may turn pink or deep red, indicating the severity of the burn. This color change is often one of the first signs of sunburn.
2. Dry and Flaky Skin: Much like humans, sunburned dog skin can become dry and flaky after a few days. While typically not itchy, some dogs may scratch or chew the area, which can lead to infections.
3. Blisters: Moderate sunburns can cause blisters that may pop. Monitor your dog closely; if there are many blisters, pus, or significant pain, consult a veterinarian.
4. Fever: Moderate to severe burns can lead to a low-grade fever. If accompanied by other symptoms, a vet visit is advisable.

Dogs displaying signs of discomfort—such as avoiding touch, exhibiting agitation, or vocalizing pain—may have more severe burns. In extreme cases, skin ulcers, infections, and even fevers can occur. If you suspect sunburn, consulting your vet is crucial to ensure proper care.

Emergency Situations

While most sunburns aren’t emergencies, certain conditions warrant immediate veterinary attention. Seek help if your dog’s skin turns dark red or purple, if there’s oozing or pus, if they display extreme pain, if they stop eating or drinking, if they show signs of dehydration, or if they are visibly in pain.

Preventing Sunburn

1. Limit Sun Exposure: Keep pets out of direct sunlight during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM).
2. Provide Shade: Create shaded areas or use shelters when outdoors.
3. Hydration is Key: Always provide fresh water to prevent heatstroke.
4. Use Pet-Safe Sunscreens: Consult your vet for suitable options. Avoid sunscreens containing zinc oxide, which is toxic to dogs and can lead to severe anemia if ingested. Similarly, products containing PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid) are harmful and should not be used on pets. Additionally, sunscreens with salicylates (or acetylsalicylic acid) are toxic for cats. We recommend EPI Pet Sunscreen and Banana Boat Dog Sunscreen.
5. Apply Sunscreen: Use sunscreen on vulnerable areas like the nose and ears, applying it about 20 minutes before exposure and reapplying as necessary.
6. UV-Blocking Clothing: Consider dog clothing or goggles that block UV rays.

Tips for Application

• Apply to exposed areas before sun exposure.
• Use treats to keep your dog still during application.
• Apply a thin layer over sensitive areas.

Treatment of Sunburn

For basic or mild burns, home remedies can be effective:

• Cold Compresses: Use a damp washcloth or spray cool water on affected areas to soothe the skin.
• Aloe Vera Gel: Apply pure aloe vera gel to promote healing.
• Coconut Oil: This can help reduce irritation.
• Vitamin E Oil: A beneficial antioxidant for skin health.
• Oatmeal Soaks: A soothing oatmeal bath can alleviate irritation.

What Not to Do

• Avoid Using Human Sunscreens: Many contain ingredients that are harmful to pets, such as zinc oxide and PABA.
• Never Apply Ice Directly to a Burn: Ice can cause further tissue damage; instead, use cool compresses.
• Don’t Burst Blisters: This increases the risk of infection.
• Refrain from Touching the Burn: Minimize handling to avoid aggravating the area.

Severe burns may require veterinary intervention, including:

• Antibiotics
• Pain medications
• Cold laser therapy
• Topical ointments
• Wound flushing

Post-treatment, keep your dog out of the sun until fully healed and continue protective measures to prevent further damage.

Skin Cancer

Repeated sunburns not only cause immediate discomfort but can also escalate the risk of developing skin cancer in dogs. Sun exposure is a direct contributor to squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma. Canine skin tumors account for approximately 30% of all tumors seen in primary veterinary practice, with these two cancers being the most common.

The types of skin cancer in dogs that can be associated with sun exposure include:

• Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
• Malignant melanomas
• Hemangiomas
• Hemangiosarcomas

The most common types of skin cancer in cats that can be associated with sun exposure include:

• Squamous cell tumors (SCC)
• Squamous cell carcinoma in situ (Bowenoid carcinoma)

Melanoma in dogs tends to grow rapidly, emphasizing the importance of early detection and treatment. For cats, melanoma may present as a small, flat freckle on the iris, which can metastasize and affect other organs. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial for spotting early signs of skin issues related to sun exposure.

What Can I Do to Prevent Heat-Related Illness?

Heat stroke can be life-threatening, so it’s crucial to supervise your pet closely in warm weather. Heat-related illnesses can occur when temperatures reach 80°F or higher, especially in high humidity. To keep your pet safe, consider these prevention strategies:

1. Timing Matters: Walk your dog during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
2. Choose Soft Surfaces: Opt for grassy areas instead of hot pavement whenever possible.
3. Heat Test: Before walking on pavement, perform a quick 7-second heat test with the back of your hand. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog.
4. Hydration and Shade: Ensure your dog has plenty of fresh water and a shaded area to rest while outside.
5. Take Breaks: Incorporate frequent play breaks to allow your dog to cool down.
6. Never Leave Alone: Do not leave your dog unattended in vehicles, even with windows cracked or parked in the shade. The interior can heat up to 40°F hotter than the outside temperature. Read more about these dangers on our blog, here.
7. Indoor Comfort: On particularly hot days, keep your pet inside with the air conditioning on to help regulate their body temperature.
8. Use sunscreens: Dogs with light fur or fair skin may benefit from dog-safe sunscreen for extra protection against harmful UV rays. We recommend EPI Pet Sunscreen and Banana Boat Dog Sunscreen.

For pets that are not accustomed to high temperatures, acclimatization is key. Dogs that have adapted to warmer conditions show higher levels of heat shock proteins, which help them cope with heat. Acclimating a dog can take anywhere from 10 days to several weeks, so introduce them gradually to warmer climates, especially for high-risk breeds.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure your pets remains safe and comfortable during the hot summer months.

Where Can I Learn More?

Read more details on our blog:

• Why cars are so dangers for pets left inside, even on cool days, here.
• The summer cooling essentials we recommend and use, here.

Watch Dr. Doug Cifranick discuss these summer safety essentials:

• Summer & Dog Exercise Safety on IG, FB, or TT.
• 3 Summer Vet Tips on IG, FB, or TT.
• It’s Hot Enough to Melt Our Equipment – Vet Warning About Summer Heat on IG, FB, or TT.
• Dangers of Hot Cars on IG, FB, or TT.

If you’d like to schedule an appointment or discuss specific heat or sun-related concerns for your pet, please call or text us at (843) 966-3362. You can also schedule an appointment online.

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