Beating the Heat: Protecting Your Pet from Heat Stroke
Things are heating up in the Northern Rivers, and if you can feel it, chances are your pets are feeling it, too. Dogs and cats are particularly vulnerable to overheating, and heat stroke can develop quickly - sometimes with fatal consequences. At Lennox Head Vet Clinic, we often see cases of pets suffering from heat stress as temperatures climb - with many popular breeds originating from much cooler parts of the world.
As with most things, prevention is always far better than cure, so here are some practical tips and guidelines to help keep your pets safe from heat stroke this season.
Why Heat Stroke Is a Big Risk in Warmer Months
Temperature stress. Pets don’t sweat like humans; dogs primarily cool themselves through panting, and cats rely on minimal evaporation through their paws. On hot days, this can be insufficient, especially for breeds with short noses (brachycephalic breeds like pugs, bulldogs, or Persian cats - look out for our upcoming blog on this).
High-intensity activity. Running, playing, or walking in direct sun can raise body temperature quickly. Even a short walk or car ride on a warm day can be dangerous.
Limited shade and ventilation. Pets left outdoors without access to shaded, cool areas can overheat in minutes.
Humidity amplifies risk. High humidity reduces the effectiveness of panting, making it harder for pets to regulate their body temperature. Summer in the Northern Rivers is humid, so this is a huge factor locally.
What to Do Before the Heat Hits
1. Know Your Pet’s Risk Factors
Brachycephalic breeds (short-nosed)
Puppies, kittens, older pets, or those with health conditions
Overweight animals - their fitness is their friend!
Pets with thick or dark coats
Being aware of which pets are most vulnerable allows you to take extra precautions, like having a lower temperature window that you exercise them in. For some pets, the limit can be low 20s - seriously!
2. Modify Your Environment for Coolness
Provide shade. Ensure outdoor pets have access to shaded areas or a cool indoor space. Better yet, allow them to stay inside in the air con/cool house on hot days.
Keep water available. Fresh, cool water should always be accessible, including portable bowls during walks.
Cool surfaces. Avoid walking pets on hot asphalt or sand - paws can burn easily, and heat transfer can raise body temperature rapidly. Always test the pavement with the back of your hand before walking your pet on it.
Fans or cooling mats. For indoor pets, fans or pet-specific cooling mats can help maintain a safe temperature.
3. Adjust Exercise & Outdoor Time
Walk dogs early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are lower.
Avoid high-energy play in the sun. Your dog doesn’t know their limits - it is your responsibility to assess the situation, and conserve their energy (and protect them) in the heat.
Avoid staying on the beach with your dog for lengthy periods of time. We know beach days are best spent with a canine companion, but your dog will not benefit from the sun-bake, and the risks in summer are just too high.
Supervise outdoor cats and limit exposure to midday heat.
4. Learn the Signs of Heat Stroke
Pets can go from slightly uncomfortable to critically ill quickly. Common signs include:
Heavy panting or difficulty breathing
Drooling or thick saliva
Bright red or pale gums
Vomiting or diarrhea, sometime bloody
Weakness, collapse, or confusion
Rapid heart rate or seizures
Immediate first aid (while contacting your vet):
Move your pet to a cool, safe area.
Offer small amounts of water if they are alert and able to drink.
Cool the body gradually with wet towels, wrapped ice packs or water.
Use a fan to increase cooling.
If indicated, transport to your vet urgently. Heat stroke can cause organ failure within minutes.
What to Expect at the Vet
Rapid assessment. We’ll check temperature, heart rate, hydration, and organ function.
Cooling therapy. Controlled cooling with fluids and supportive care is crucial.
Monitoring & treatment. Pets often require IV fluids, blood work, and close monitoring for complications such as kidney or liver issues, clotting problems, or neurological signs.
Hospitalisation. Severe heat stroke cases may need prolonged care to prevent lasting damage.
Recovery & follow-up. With prompt treatment, many pets recover fully, though follow-up visits may be necessary for high-risk cases.
Practical Tips for Pet Owners in the Northern Rivers
Never leave pets in cars, even for a few minutes.
Do not go on walks and play during the hottest parts of the day.
Keep fresh water available at all times.
Provide shade and cool areas for outdoor pets (better yet, let them in).
Monitor for early signs of heat stress, especially in high-risk pets.
Educate family members and pet sitters about heat safety and emergency plans.
Consider pet insurance or emergency funds to cover urgent treatment costs.
Final Thoughts from Lennox Head Vet Clinic
Heat stroke is a serious risk during the warm months in the Northern Rivers, especially for pets with limited cooling ability or access to the indoors. But with thoughtful preparation, supervised outdoor time, and quick action at the first sign of heat stress, your pets can enjoy their summer safely.
🐾 Keep your furry friends cool, hydrated, and happy this season!