You wouldn’t think heatstroke was a big risk in Ireland. We’re not exactly known for scorching summers. But every year, our vets across Kildare, Meath, Dublin, Laois and Wexford treat pets for heatstroke, and it usually catches owners completely off guard. A mild 20°C day doesn’t feel dangerous to us. To a dog in a parked car, or a cat with no shade, it can be fatal within minutes.

Here’s what you need to know to keep your pet safe.

Why pets overheat so easily

Dogs and cats can’t cool down the way we do. We sweat all over our bodies. They rely mostly on panting, plus a small amount of sweating through their paw pads. That’s a much less efficient system, especially for breeds with short noses like pugs, bulldogs and Persian cats, who can’t pant as effectively to begin with.

Add a thick coat, a car with the windows barely cracked, or a long walk on a warm afternoon, and body temperature can climb fast. Once a dog’s temperature passes about 41°C, organ damage starts. It doesn’t take long to get there.

Who’s most at risk

Some pets are far more vulnerable than others:

• Flat-faced breeds (pugs, bulldogs, boxers, Persian cats)
• Older pets and very young puppies or kittens
• Overweight pets
• Pets with heart or breathing conditions
• Thick or double-coated breeds like huskies and collies
• Farm animals without access to shade or water on hot days

If your pet falls into one of these groups, take extra care once the sun comes out.

Signs of heatstroke

Watch for:

• Heavy panting that doesn’t ease off
• Drooling more than usual
• Bright red gums or tongue
• Weakness or wobbliness
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Collapse

If you notice any of these, don’t wait to see if your pet improves on their own. Heatstroke moves fast, and every minute matters.

What to do if you suspect heatstroke

1. Move your pet somewhere cool and shaded straight away.
2. Offer small amounts of cool (not ice cold) water.
3. Wet their coat with cool water, or lay damp towels over their body, focusing on the neck, armpits and groin.
4. Get them to a vet immediately. Even if they seem to be recovering, internal damage can still be happening.

This is exactly the kind of situation our emergency teams are set up for. If you’re ever unsure, call your nearest Highfield practice and we’ll talk you through what to do next.

Simple ways to prevent it

• Walk dogs early morning or evening when it’s cooler, not in the middle of the day
• Never leave a pet in a parked car, even for “just a minute” with the windows down
• Make sure fresh water is always available, indoors and out
• Give pets access to shade at all times, especially farm animals and those kept outdoors
• Watch the pavement. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws
• Consider a cooling mat or damp towel for pets who struggle in the heat

The bottom line

Ireland’s summers are unpredictable, but a run of a few warm, still days is all it takes for heatstroke to become a real risk. A little planning goes a long way, and knowing the signs means you can act fast if something does go wrong.

If you’re ever worried about your pet in hot weather, don’t hesitate to reach out. Find your nearest Highfield practice and emergency number on our contact page, or read more about our emergency care.