How to Treat an Overheated Dog

Watch your dog for signs of overheating during hot weather. Dogs having difficulty with high temperatures may rapidly pant, salivate, stagger, vomit or lose consciousness. If you see these signs, immediately move your dog to a cooler area, preferably with a fan. Dogs with short muzzles or heavy fur coats may show signs of overheating sooner than other dogs.

Take your dog's temperature with a rectal thermometer. A dog's normal temperature is 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit. Moderate overheating happens at 103 to 106 degrees, and severe overheating occurs over 106 degrees. Call your veterinarian or pet emergency center and report the signs your dog is exhibiting, along with his temperature. The veterinarian should be able to determine if your dog needs emergency care.

Decrease your dog's temperature by placing cool, wet towels over your dog's neck, under his armpits and between his back legs. Also, you can wet his ear flaps and paw pads with cool water. If you are outdoors, a pond or stream can be used to cool your dog.

Offer your dog fresh, cool water to drink. Do not force water into his mouth because he may aspirate it into his lungs. If he does not want to drink, you can wet his tongue with the water. Dogs that hunt and retrieve should be given rest and water breaks often to prevent overheating.

Transport your overheated dog to your veterinarian. Call ahead to alert your veterinarian that you’re on the way, so he can be ready to treat your dog when you arrive. Your dog may need to receive oxygen, fluids or other treatments. Seizures and cardiac arrest may occur with severe overheating.