Heat Stroke in Pets: Essential Summer Safety Tips

January 7, 2026

Hot summer months in Australia can be brutal and heat stroke is a serious and potentially fatal condition in pets. At Bellarine Veterinary Practice in Geelong, we’re committed to helping you keep your beloved pets safe, whether you’re walking your dog, transporting your cat, or caring for small animals like guinea pigs, rabbits and birds. 

Heat Stroke in Dogs  

Furry animals can’t sweat like humans and rely on panting as their main cooling method. Heat stroke occurs when their body temperature exceeds 41 °C, leading to rapid organ failure without prompt intervention, particularly in brachycephalic (flat faced) breeds.  

Early signs include: 

  • heavy panting 
  • drooling 
  • bright red gums 
  • restlessness 

 Advanced symptoms such as vomiting, collapse or seizures require immediate veterinary attention. 

Veterinary treatment for heat stroke involves: 

  • Immediate and controlled cooling with cool water and fans to reduce body temperature.  
  • Intravenous fluids for hydration and shock.  
  • Oxygen therapy. 
  • Intensive monitoring for organ damage. 
  • Some pets might need ongoing hospitalisation – heatstroke is a serious emergency with the potential for severe, internal damage.  

Walking in the heat?  

Aim for early morning or late evening strolls, ideally when temperatures are under 23 °C. Avoid walking in temperatures above 28 °C, especially for brachycephalic breeds, puppies, older, overweight, or unwell dogs and always check pavement temperature with the back of your hand to avoid painful burnt paws. Carry water on walks and allow for shady rest stops.  

Never Leave Pets in Cars 

Even on relatively cool days, car interiors can rise to over 40 °C in minutes, creating a lethal environment for pets. Leaving pets in cars can lead to severe heat stroke and organ damage within just 15 minutes. Call emergency services if you find an animal trapped in a car showing signs of distress. 

Caring for Guinea Pigs, Rabbits & Birds 

Small animals like guinea pigs, rabbits and birds are exceptionally vulnerable to heat, and heat stroke can develop rapidly in outdoor enclosures. Signs to watch for include panting, open mouth or laboured breathing, reluctance to move, drooling, and collapse. 

Ensure heavy shade throughout the day, move enclosures indoors during heatwaves, improve air flow, and provide fresh, cool water (even ice cubes in water bottles). Birds can be misted with room temperature water. If heat stroke occurs, wrap your pet in a cool, damp towel – not icy water – and seek vet care immediately. 

First Aid for Hot Pets 

If you suspect heat stroke: 

  1. Move the pet to shade and a cool area. 
  2. Use cool (not cold) water to dampen their body, focusing on areas with major blood flow (head, chest, inner thighs). 
  3. Offer small sips of cool water, don’t force more.  
  4. Transport your pet wrapped in damp towels with airflow until you reach a vet. Time is critical as organ failure can begin within minutes. 

Prevention Tips 

To safeguard your pets this summer: 

  • Schedule walks during cooler hours in the early morning or late evening. Check the temperature of surfaces before stepping out and bring water on every outing. 
  • Never leave pets unattended in cars – even cracked windows won’t stop temperatures from rising dangerously.  
  • Ensure small pets have shaded, ventilated hutches and access to cool water – consider indoor relocation if it’s hot. 
  • Be extra cautious with brachycephalic (flat-faced breeds), elderly animals, young animals, overweight pets, or those with pre-existing health conditions. 

When to Call the Vet 

Any sign of overheating – excessive panting, drooling, disorientation, vomiting or collapse demands urgent veterinary attention. Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency that requires early and aggressive treatment to avoid long-term organ damage or death. 

 Stay Cool, Stay Safe: Your Pet’s Summer Lifeline 

Protect your pets this summer by staying informed and proactive. At Bellarine Veterinary Practice, we’re always here to assist with advice, check-ups, or emergencies. Together, we can ensure that every walk, outing, and warm day remains safe and enjoyable for our pets. 

Call us on (03) 5248 2009 or click here to make an appointment online today.