Hot Weather and Dogs: 7 Rules That Prevent Heatstroke

Dogs cool themselves mostly by panting, and that system has limits. Heatstroke can come on fast and it is an emergency. These seven rules cover almost every summer situation.

1. Never leave a dog in a parked car

The American Veterinary Medical Association notes that the inside of a car can heat up about 20 degrees Fahrenheit in 10 minutes and almost 30 degrees in 20 minutes. Shade and cracked windows do not fix it.

Do this: if the dog cannot come inside with you, the dog stays home.

2. Test the pavement with your hand

If it is too hot to hold your hand on comfortably, it is too hot for paws.

Do this: walk early or late, and choose grass or dirt.

3. Carry water on every walk

Do this: a collapsible bowl weighs nothing. Offer small drinks often.

4. Know which dogs struggle most

Flat-faced breeds such as Bulldogs, Frenchies and Pugs, older dogs, overweight dogs and thick-coated dogs overheat sooner.

5. Give them shade and a cool floor

Do this: indoors on the worst afternoons. A fan and a damp towel to lie on help.

6. Go easy on exercise

Watch out for: fetch. Many dogs will not stop on their own.

7. Learn the warning signs

Heavy panting, thick drool, restlessness, bright red gums, stumbling, vomiting or collapse.

Do this: move the dog to a cool place, offer water, wet them with cool (not ice-cold) water and get to a vet right away.

Where to check all of this, free

• Your veterinarian.

• The American Veterinary Medical Association's warm weather pet safety page at avma.org.

This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Your veterinarian knows your dog best.