Signs of heatstroke
- Heavy panting, thick drool, bright red or pale gums
- Weakness, stumbling, vomiting or diarrhoea
- Collapse or seizures
- Move to shade or a cool roomGet the animal out of the sun and away from hot pavement immediately.
- Cool graduallyWet the body with cool — not ice-cold — water, especially the belly, armpits and paws, and use a fan if you have one. Ice water can make blood vessels close and trap heat inside.
- Offer small sips of waterOnly if the animal is alert and can swallow. Never force water into its mouth.
- Go to the vet even if it seems betterHeatstroke can damage organs hours later. Keep cooling on the way with wet towels and open windows.
Never leave an animal in a parked carOn a warm day, a car can become deadly in minutes, even with the windows slightly open.