How to Help an Animal Affected by Heat 🧡 🐾

Quick, calm actions that can save an animal in heat

Hot weather can quickly become dangerous for pets and stray animals. Heat stress and heatstroke develop rapidly, especially in brachycephalic breeds, long-coated animals, very young or elderly pets. Stay calm and act promptly and safely.

Signs of heat-related distress

• Rapid or labored breathing and excessive panting.
• Weakness, unsteady walking, or collapse.
• Heavy drooling, red or dry gums, very warm skin.
• Vomiting, diarrhea, confusion or loss of consciousness — all are urgent signs.

If you see these signs, begin first aid immediately.

First aid steps

1. Move the animal out of direct sun into shade or an air-conditioned area. Remove collars and tight harnesses.
2. Offer cool (not ice-cold) water in small amounts. Don’t force-feed water if the animal is vomitting or unconscious.
3. Cool the animal gradually: apply cool, damp towels to the neck, chest, and pads of the paws. Replace towels as they warm.
4. Use a fan to increase evaporative cooling over damp areas.
5. Do not apply ice directly to the skin — rapid cooling can cause harmful effects.
6. If the animal’s condition does not improve or worsens, transport to a veterinarian immediately.

Transport tips

• Secure the animal safely for travel and keep ventilation flowing.
• Use air conditioning or a fan during the trip.
• Stop in shaded areas if you need to continue cooling with wet towels and offer more water.

When to get emergency veterinary help

Seek immediate veterinary care if the animal shows:

• Difficulty breathing, seizures, collapse, or unconsciousness.
• Persistent vomiting, bloody diarrhea, or signs of shock.
• Extremely high body temperature that doesn’t come down with basic cooling.

At the clinic the animal may need IV fluids, temperature monitoring, and other supportive treatments.

Preventive measures — better than cure

• Always provide constant access to fresh water and shaded resting spots.
• Walk dogs early in the morning or late evening; avoid midday heat.
• Reduce intense exercise and monitor for signs of distress.
• Never leave a pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes.
• Grooming helps: remove mats and excess undercoat, but avoid shaving to the skin.

Helping stray animals

• Place bowls of water and shaded spots where strays gather.
• If an animal appears seriously ill, safely contain or call local rescue volunteers.
• Document the condition and share details with local animal welfare groups if available.

Simple items to keep in your car

• Clean towels, a bottle of cool water, a portable bowl, a blanket, basic pet first-aid supplies.

Timely, calm care can prevent a heat emergency from becoming life-threatening. Small acts from neighbors and communities help keep animals safe and comfortable in the heat.