26 May 2026
Keeping Dogs Safe in the Heat: The Professional Dog Walker’s Guide
Recognising Heatstroke in Dogs
Heatstroke in dogs escalates fast. Knowing what to look for — and what to do — could save a dog’s life before the vet even answers the phone.
Early signs are easy to miss, particularly if you’re managing a group walk or distracted by traffic. Watch for excessive, frantic panting that doesn’t slow down with rest; thick, ropy saliva; a bright red or pale gum colour; glazed or unfocused eyes; and sudden reluctance to move. A dog that keeps lying down and refusing to get up on a hot day is not being stubborn — that’s a warning signal. As the condition worsens, you may see vomiting, stumbling, muscle tremors, or collapse.
If you suspect heatstroke, move the dog to shade immediately and begin cooling with cool (not cold) water, particularly around the neck, armpits, and groin. Do not use ice or icy water — rapid cooling can cause the blood vessels near the skin to constrict, trapping heat in the body’s core. Once the dog is stable, contact a vet immediately, even if the dog appears to recover. Internal organ damage from heatstroke can develop hours after the episode.
✓ Early Warning Signs
Heavy, continuous panting
Excessive drooling or thick saliva
Slowing down or refusing to move
Seeking shade and lying down repeatedly
Bright red gums or tongue
⚠ Serious — Act Immediately
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Stumbling, loss of coordination
Muscle tremors or seizures
Pale or grey gums
Loss of consciousness
Practical tip: Keep a note of each client’s vet contact in your phone. In a heatstroke emergency, you don’t want to be searching a client’s profile whilst the dog is deteriorating. A simple note titled “Dog — Vet — [Dog’s name]” takes thirty seconds to create and could matter enormously.
Breeds at Greater Risk
Some breeds are physiologically far more vulnerable to heat than others — and it’s not always obvious which dogs those are until you’re already in trouble.
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General Knowledge
