Tennessee heat can be brutal—especially for puppies, senior dogs, thick-coated dogs, and brachycephalic breeds (like Bulldogs and Pugs). Heatstroke can become life-threatening fast.
If you suspect heatstroke, call immediately.
➡️ Contact: https://poplarviewpethospital.com/contact-us/
➡️ Urgent care: https://poplarviewpethospital.com/services/emergencies-urgent-care/
Heatstroke symptoms in dogs
Common warning signs include:
- Heavy panting, drooling
- Bright red gums or very pale gums
- Weakness, wobbliness, collapse
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- High heart rate
- Confusion or glassy eyes
- Seizures (severe cases)
First aid: what to do immediately
Your goal is to cool safely while heading for care:
- Move your dog to shade/air conditioning
- Offer small sips of water if they can swallow
- Use cool (not ice-cold) water on belly, paws, and neck
- Place a fan nearby if available
- Go to the vet right away
What NOT to do
- Don’t use ice baths (can constrict vessels and slow cooling)
- Don’t force water into your dog’s mouth
- Don’t delay care because they “seem better”
How we treat heatstroke
Treatment may include:
- Controlled cooling and monitoring temperature
- IV fluids
- Bloodwork (organ function and clotting risks)
- Medications for nausea, inflammation, and complications
- Ongoing monitoring (heatstroke can cause delayed organ damage)
Prevention tips
- Avoid midday walks; choose early morning/evening
- Never leave your dog in a parked car
- Provide shade + water outdoors
- Watch high-risk breeds and overweight dogs closely
- Use cooling vests or short potty trips during heat advisories
When to call
If your dog is overheating or showing symptoms, call us.
➡️ Contact: https://poplarviewpethospital.com/contact-us/
➡️ Urgent care: https://poplarviewpethospital.com/services/emergencies-urgent-care/
➡️ Request appointment: https://poplarviewpethospital.com/request-appointment/
