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Heatstroke first aid

Frantic panting, wobbling, brick-red gums and soaring temperature are heatstroke signs. Organ damage happens within minutes — cool and transport at the same time.

⚠️ 🚨 Emergency

Ice water constricts blood vessels and traps heat — use room-temperature water.

🚨 First-aid steps

  1. 1Move to shade / air conditioning immediately
  2. 2Soak the whole body with room-temperature water, especially belly, armpits and paw pads
  3. 3Fan or use AC to speed evaporative cooling
  4. 4Measure rectal temperature; stop active cooling at about 39.4°C (103°F)
  5. 5Call the nearest 24-hour hospital while cooling
  6. 6If conscious and swallowing, offer small sips of water

⛔ Never do this

  • ✕Don't use ice water or ice packs directly
  • ✕Don't over-cool (hypothermia is equally deadly)
  • ✕Don't skip the vet because it «looks recovered» — organ damage can be delayed

🏥 Go to the vet immediately if:

  • ⚠Every suspected heatstroke case gets checked
  • ⚠Seizures, coma, bloody stool or persistent vomiting
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