In today’s episode of what I’ve learned in vet school, I wanted to talk about heat exhaustion and heat stroke in dogs.
This feels especially relevant in Singapore, where heat stress is not just about temperature. Humidity matters too. Dogs mainly cool themselves by panting, so hot and humid weather can make cooling harder. NEA’s heat stress advisory uses Wet Bulb Globe Temperature, which considers air temperature, humidity, wind speed, and solar radiation.
This is why a walk can feel more intense even when the temperature looks normal.
Temperature is only one clue
Normal dog temperature is about 38.1°C to 39.0°C.
A dog’s temperature is usually checked gently from the bum. But temperature is only one clue, so the signs matter too. A temperature above 39.4°C may indicate heat exhaustion, and above 41.1°C may indicate heat stroke.
That was a useful reminder for me because heat-related illness is not only about a number. It is about looking at the whole dog.
Know the early warning signs
Early signs can include excessive panting, drooling, restlessness, seeking shade, slowing down, or becoming unwilling to continue exercise.
Heavy panting, drooling, slowing down, or refusing to continue are signs to stop. During a walk, do not push through because a mild heat-related episode can worsen.
Stop activity, move to shade or air-conditioning, and start cooling.
Heat stress needs urgent vet care
Heat stroke can show as heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, confusion, seizures, or collapse.
The gums can also give important clues. Very red, pale, grey, blue, dry, or sticky gums are concerning. Capillary refill time, or CRT, is another check. After gently pressing the gum, colour should usually return within about 1 to 2 seconds. Very slow or abnormal refill can suggest poor circulation and needs urgent care.
Weakness, vomiting, confusion, collapse, or abnormal gums need urgent vet care.
Start cooling while arranging veterinary care
Cooling should start immediately while arranging veterinary care.
Move your dog to shade, air-conditioning, or a breezy area. Wet the coat with cool, not cold, water. Use a fan or air-con to keep air moving. Cool the belly, chest, armpits, groin, paws, and underside. Offer water, but do not force your dog to drink. Call your vet while cooling, and transport once cooling has started.
Do not wrap the whole body in wet towels.
Why a vet check still matters after cooling
Heat stroke can affect organs, blood, and circulation.
At the clinic, your vet may continue active cooling, check temperature, assess hydration, gums, circulation, heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure. They may run blood tests to check organ function, electrolytes, glucose, clotting, and possible complications. Treatment may include IV fluids, oxygen, glucose or electrolyte support, anti-seizure medication, gut-protective medication, blood products, monitoring, and hospitalisation depending on severity.
This post reflects my personal experience as a vet student and is not professional veterinary advice.
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