Spain heatwave warning: Early signs of heatstroke every dog owner should know
Recognising the early symptoms can help prevent life-threatening complications during periods of extreme heat in Spain
With another heatwave forecast across much of Spain this weekend, veterinarians are reminding dog owners that heatstroke can develop far more quickly than many people realise.
While most people associate heatstroke with a dog collapsing, the earliest warning signs often appear much sooner. Excessive panting, unusual tiredness, restlessness, reluctance to walk and a constant search for shade can all indicate that a dog is struggling to regulate its body temperature.
Recognising these signs early and taking immediate action can prevent a potentially fatal emergency.
Why dogs are vulnerable to heat
Unlike humans, dogs can’t cool themselves by sweating through their skin. They rely mainly on panting and, to a lesser extent, heat loss through their paw pads.
When temperatures rise, especially in humid conditions, this cooling system can quickly become overwhelmed. Once a dog's body temperature begins to climb, heat exhaustion can progress to heatstroke, potentially affecting the brain, kidneys, liver and other organs.
The early signs not to ignore
The first changes are often seen in a dog's breathing and behaviour.
Warning signs include:
- Excessive or unusually noisy panting
- Thick saliva or excessive drooling
- A very red tongue or gums
- Reluctance to continue walking
- Lying down repeatedly during walks
- Seeking shade constantly
- Confusion or disorientation
- Loss of coordination or stumbling
Vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors or muscle cramps can indicate that the condition is becoming more serious.
If a dog collapses, has seizures, loses consciousness or struggles to breathe, the situation should be treated as a veterinary emergency.
Some dogs are at greater risk
Any dog can suffer heatstroke, but some are more vulnerable than others.
Higher-risk groups include:
- Flat-faced breeds such as bulldogs, pugs, boxers and Pekingese
- Puppies and elderly dogs
- Overweight animals
- Dogs with heart or respiratory conditions
- Breeds with thick coats
- Dogs taking certain medications
Even a relatively short walk can become dangerous during very hot weather, particularly on hot pavements or in direct sunlight.
What to do if you suspect heatstroke
Current veterinary advice is simple: cool first, transport second.
Move the dog immediately into shade or an air-conditioned area. Wet the neck, belly, groin and legs with cool water and increase airflow using a fan or air conditioning.
If the dog is conscious, offer small amounts of cool water. Avoid ice-cold water, which can cause additional problems.
Do not waste time searching for the perfect solution. A hose, shower, fountain or bottle of water can all help start lowering the dog's temperature while you contact a veterinary clinic.
Prevention is better than cure
During heatwaves, walks should be limited to the coolest parts of the day, with plenty of opportunities for shade and water.
Experts also warn against making dogs sit or lie on scorching pavements. A useful guide is the "five-second rule": if you can’t comfortably keep the back of your hand on the ground for five seconds, then it’s too hot for a dog's paws.
Above all, owners should pay attention to their dog's behaviour. Excessive panting, slowing down or refusing to continue are often early warnings that a dog has reached its limit.
Image: Ayuntamiento de Paterna
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