How To Protect Dogs In A Heatwave

On the JJ Barnes Blog, as the soaring temperatures puts dogs like Mollydog at risk of heatstroke, I’m learning essential tips to protect dogs in a heatwave.

As the UK swelters under a blistering heatwave, my heart’s with my furry best friend, Mollydog, who’s panting just a bit more than usual. Veterinarians across the country are sounding urgent warnings about the rising risk of heatstroke in dogs, and with temperatures soaring, I’m learning just how critical it is to keep Mollydog safe.

Google searches for “heatstroke in dogs,” “signs of heatstroke,” and “heatstroke treatment” have hit an all-time high in the past 30 days, reflecting the growing concern among pet owners like me. Experts from Nottingham Trent University are raising alarms about the impact of extreme heat, especially in urban areas like London, where the urban heat island effect makes conditions even tougher for dogs like Mollydog.

The combination of rising temperatures and limited awareness makes this time of year particularly dangerous for dogs. Many owners don’t realise that heatstroke can develop rapidly and prove fatal within hours.

The most dangerous myth is that heatstroke only happens to dogs left in hot cars or exercised in extreme heat. In reality, many cases occur in gardens or homes during what owners consider ‘moderate’ weather. With climate change driving more frequent and intense heatwaves, understanding your dog’s risk factors and recognising early warning signs has never been more important.

-Dr Aimee Warner, resident veterinarian at Waggel

Here’s what I’ve learned about keeping our canine companions safe during this scorching season.

The Growing Threat of Heatstroke in Dogs

Heatstroke occurs when a dog’s body temperature rises dangerously above its normal range (38-39°C) and cannot be regulated effectively. Unlike humans, dogs primarily cool themselves through panting and limited sweating via their paw pads, making them highly susceptible to overheating. With the UK experiencing more frequent and intense heatwaves due to climate change, the risk of heatstroke is escalating, especially for certain breeds and in specific environments.

In urban hubs like London, the urban heat island effect—where concrete, asphalt, and buildings absorb and radiate heat—can push temperatures several degrees higher than in rural areas. This creates a hazardous environment for dogs, compounded by limited green spaces, fewer shaded walking routes, and a higher prevalence of vulnerable breeds. According to veterinary experts, these factors form a “perfect storm” for heatstroke, putting thousands of dogs at risk.

Three Critical Facts About Heatstroke

Veterinarians emphasize three key facts to help dog owners understand and combat heatstroke:

Brachycephalic Breeds Are at Higher Risk

Flat-faced breeds such as French Bulldogs, Pugs, and English Bulldogs face a significantly elevated risk of heatstroke—up to 14 times higher than other breeds. Their short snouts and compromised airways hinder effective panting, making it harder for them to regulate body temperature. Owners of these breeds must exercise extra caution during hot weather.

Heatstroke Can Occur Without Direct Sun Exposure

A common misconception is that heatstroke only happens under direct sunlight. In reality, poorly ventilated indoor spaces, such as homes without air conditioning or conservatories, can become dangerously hot. Parked cars are particularly lethal, with temperatures soaring to deadly levels within 20 minutes, even with partially open windows. A 2024 study noted that cars parked in the shade on a 24°C day can reach 43°C inside, posing a fatal risk to dogs left inside.

Early Intervention Saves Lives

Recognizing the early signs of heatstroke—excessive panting, drooling, red gums, vomiting, disorientation, or collapse—can be the difference between life and death. If untreated, heatstroke can lead to severe complications like organ failure or brain damage. Immediate action, such as moving the dog to a cooler area, offering small amounts of water, and contacting a vet, significantly improves recovery chances. Veterinary data suggests that dogs treated promptly have a survival rate of up to 90%, compared to just 50% for those with delayed intervention.

Urban Challenges: Why London Dogs Are at Greater Risk

London’s dense urban environment exacerbates heatstroke risks. The city’s concrete-heavy landscape traps heat, creating microclimates that can be 5-7°C warmer than surrounding rural areas. Green spaces, which provide shade and cooler surfaces for walks, are often limited, particularly in central boroughs. Additionally, urban dog owners may rely on pavements for walks, which can reach scorching temperatures—sometimes exceeding 50°C—burning paws and increasing heat stress.

The popularity of brachycephalic breeds in cities like London further heightens the danger. According to the Kennel Club, registrations for French Bulldogs have surged by over 300% in the past decade, making them one of the UK’s most popular breeds. Their vulnerability to heatstroke, combined with urban conditions, creates a pressing need for owner awareness.

Expert Tips to Keep Dogs Cool

Dr. Emily Warner, a leading UK veterinarian, offers practical advice to help dog owners protect their pets during the heatwave:

• Time Walks Wisely: Schedule walks for early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler, avoiding the peak heat between 10 am and 4 pm.
• Stay Hydrated: Always carry fresh water and a portable bowl to keep your dog hydrated on the go.
• Create Cooling Stations: Use damp towels, cooling mats, or shaded paddling pools at home to help dogs stay comfortable.
• Avoid Hot Pavements: Test pavement temperature by holding your hand on it for 7 seconds—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Opt for grassy routes instead.
• Use Cooling Gear: Cooling vests or bandanas can help regulate body temperature, especially for high-risk breeds.
• Never Leave Dogs in Cars: Even a minute in a parked car can be deadly. On a 25°C day, car interiors can exceed 40°C in just 10 minutes.
• Keep Indoors Cool: Close blinds during the day and place ice cubes in water bowls to maintain a refreshing indoor environment.
• Monitor Vulnerable Dogs: Pay extra attention to elderly, overweight, or brachycephalic dogs, as they are more susceptible to heat stress.

The Bigger Picture: Climate Change and Canine Health

The increasing frequency of extreme weather events, driven by climate change, is a growing concern for canine welfare. Research from Nottingham Trent University indicates that heat-related illnesses in dogs have risen by 20% over the past five years, correlating with warmer summers. This trend underscores the need for long-term strategies, such as urban planning that prioritizes green spaces and public education campaigns about pet safety in hot weather.

Veterinary organizations are also advocating for stricter regulations on breeding practices for brachycephalic dogs, whose health issues are exacerbated by heat. Meanwhile, apps and wearable devices that monitor a dog’s temperature and activity levels are gaining popularity, offering owners real-time alerts to potential heat stress.

Act Now to Protect Your Dog

With temperatures soaring and heatstroke risks at an all-time high, dog owners must act proactively. By understanding the unique vulnerabilities of their pets, recognizing early warning signs, and following expert advice, owners can ensure their dogs stay safe and cool. As Dr. Warner emphasizes, “Prevention is always better than cure. A few simple steps can save your dog from a life-threatening situation.”

If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, act immediately: move them to a cool, shaded area, offer small sips of water, and contact your veterinarian without delay. With vigilance and care, we can keep our canine companions safe through the hottest days of the UK’s summer.