Signs of Heat Stroke in Pets
Florida heat can sneak up quickly—and while we may be able to grab a cold drink or find some shade, our pets rely on us to keep them safe. At Partners Veterinary Hospital Fruitville, we want you to know how to recognize the signs of heat stroke in pets and what to do if your furry friend is in danger.
What Is Heat Stroke?
Heat stroke (or heat exhaustion) happens when a pet’s body temperature rises to a dangerous level, usually due to prolonged exposure to high heat or humidity. Dogs and cats can’t cool off the way humans do—they don’t sweat like we do—so they overheat much more easily.
Common Causes in Sarasota’s Climate
- Walking or exercising during the hottest parts of the day
- Lack of shade or water outdoors
- Being left in a parked car (even for a few minutes!)
- Overexertion during playtime
- Breeds with flat faces (like Bulldogs or Persian Cats) are at even greater risk
Warning Signs to Watch For
If your pet is showing any of these signs, they may be experiencing heat stroke:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Bright red gums or tongue
- Lethargy or unresponsiveness
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Staggering or collapse
- Rapid heart rate
What to Do in an Emergency
If you suspect your pet has heat stroke:
- Move them to a cool area immediately.
- Offer water (but don’t force them to drink).
- Cool them down gradually using cool (not cold) water on their body, especially the paws and belly.
- Call us right away or head to the nearest emergency vet.
Heat stroke can lead to organ failure or death if not treated quickly—fast action matters.
Prevention Is Key
- Walk your dog early in the morning or after sunset
- Keep fresh water available at all times
- Never leave pets in a parked car
- Take extra precautions with senior pets, overweight pets, and flat-faced breeds
We’re Here When You Need Us
If you’re ever unsure whether your pet is overheated or just tired, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Partners Veterinary Hospital Fruitville, we’re here to keep your pets safe, happy, and cool—even on the hottest Florida days.
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At Partners Veterinary Group, we believe in energizing our team members through shared values, while helping them create value for our clients and patients. Knowing we can help make pets' and people's lives better motivates us to continually strive for excellence and love what we do.
Our team consistently works to build educational, supportive, and cooperative work environments that cater to positive experiences and professional growth. We're constantly evolving, creating innovative ways to deliver cutting-edge medicine to our patients. We equip our teams with tools to enhance their skills and improve their knowledge.