Don't walk your dog in this weather: What temperature is deadly dangerous
Dogs can suffer heatstroke at just +15°C (photo: Getty Images)
In summer, even a short walk can end in heatstroke for a dog. When air temperature becomes dangerous, how to recognize overheating, and what to do in critical situations. What dog owners should know about walks in warm weather and how to recognize heatstroke in time, shared canine expert Andrii Dolzhenko.
According to the expert, it may seem to us that the heat hasn’t started yet, but for dogs, rising temperatures in spring and summer already feel like hell. And a dog can die from overheating faster than from cold.
Why heat is dangerous for dogs
Scientists have concluded that already at +15°C and above, a dog is no longer able to effectively release excess heat during physical activity. That means it’s already a critical temperature. If there’s no shade, water, or rest, overheating is just a matter of time.
Symptoms of heatstroke in a dog
- Very rapid breathing, shortness of breath
- Weakness, unsteady gait
- Bright red or bluish gums and tongue
- Hot body, especially the belly, ears, and paws
- Drooling
- Lethargy or unconsciousness
- Vomiting, seizures
This is an emergency. You must act immediately! emphasizes Andrii Dolzhenko.
What to do if your dog has heatstroke
Immediately move the dog to the shade or a cool place
Wrap the body in cool, wet towels, especially the belly, paws, and neck
Cool the dog gradually. Do not spray ice-cold water! This may cause shock
Offer water, but don’t force drinking. Let them take small sips
Contact a veterinarian as soon as possible, even if the dog seems to feel better
How to avoid overheating in summer
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In warm weather, avoid forcing your dog to be physically active. If your dog doesn’t enjoy running or jumping, don’t insist. Listen to your pet
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Plan walking routes with shade. Avoid asphalt, sand, and concrete – these heat up to +50 to +60°C
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Do not leave your dog in direct sunlight
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A car is like an oven. Park in the shade, leave windows open, and ensure water. Even air conditioning won’t help if the engine stops
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On especially hot days, walk your dog early in the morning before it gets hot and late in the evening when it cools down
Important! Pay attention to the surface!
The trainer reminds us that dogs don’t wear shoes, and the pads on their paws are very sensitive. Concrete, asphalt, tiles, and sand absorb heat quickly and can reach +50 to +60°C. A dog can get burns just by standing in place for a few minutes.
A simple test: place the back of your hand on the ground for 5 seconds – if it’s too hot for you, it’ll be even worse for your dog, says Andrii Dolzhenko.
He advises choosing walking routes with grass or shaded trails and avoiding standing on hot surfaces. If there are no alternatives, put protective booties on your dog or don’t go out in the heat.
Sometimes a dog doesn’t show obvious signs at first, but is already fighting for its life. And even if it doesn’t die, it will suffer because of our carelessness. Spring is already a dangerous season. Starting from +15°C – it’s a risk zone. Take care of your friends, because to them, you are their whole world. And they won’t be able to say that they’re feeling unwell, the expert addressed dog owners.
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