Boppard. The fear that the dog will collapse in the heat hits right at the heart – and it is justified. Heat stroke often develops faster than you think and can be life-threatening. The sooner you recognize the signs and act, the better the dog's chances.
In contrast to humans, dogs can hardly regulate their body temperature through sweating because they only have sweat glands on their paws and nose. The main way to cool down is by panting, which quickly reaches its limits in extreme heat or exertion and can lead to dangerous overheating. The normal body temperature for dogs is around 38 to 39 degrees; it rises significantly above that (from around 40 to 41 degrees), every minute counts.
Early warning signs 
It's important to look out for early warning signs such as heavy panting, restlessness, glassy eyes, excessive salivation, warm ears, a dark red or pale pink tongue and gums, and a rapid pulse. Weakness, staggering, wide stance, vomiting or diarrhea, sometimes with blood, are also typical. In a later stage of shock, the mucous membranes turn bluish, tremors, convulsions, disorientation and ultimately unconsciousness, coma and, in the worst case, death.
First measures
Move the dog out of the sun into the shade or a cool, well-ventilated room. Loosen or, ideally, remove any tight-fitting harnesses or collars so that breathing remains free. Place your four-legged friend on a cool, not ice-cold surface and ensure there is a breeze – a fan can help with this. Do not leave the dog alone; a familiar caregiver is important for him in this situation.
Now cool gently but consistently. Add cool to lukewarm water (not ice cold) Use and moisten the stomach, chest, neck, inner thighs and paw pads. The damp towels should be changed frequently or supplied with additional air – a permanently wet, tight-fitting towel without air flow accumulates heat. A gentle stream of water or a bowl of water to pour over is better than an ice-cold bath. As soon as breathing and reactions calm down slightly, reduce cooling slightly to avoid “overcooling”.
Offer the dog small amounts of room temperature water, but never force him to drink. No ice cubes, no milk, and no sports or electrolyte drinks for humans – they can cause stomach problems or hinder cooling. Until he seems stable and a vet gives the green light, don't give him any food.
Even if the dog recovers: go to the vet immediately! Heat stroke can cause delayed damage to organs (e.g. kidneys, intestines) and cause coagulation disorders, even if the symptoms initially subside. Continue to cool it moderately while driving (wet, changed towels, draft), keep the dog calm. Always control breathing and consciousness.
Absolutely not
No ice-cold water or ice bath – this constricts blood vessels in the skin and keeps heat in the body. Do not completely wrap the dog in wet, thick blankets without airflow; Do not give any medications such as painkillers or fever reducers. No forced drinking and no muzzle to prevent panting. Don't wait to see if it gets better on its own and never leave it in a stationary car – even with the window open, the temperature rises dramatically quickly and worsens the condition.
prevention
Schedule activities in the cool morning and evening hours, always offer shade and fresh water, take breaks and avoid hot floors. Short-nosed breeds, overweight, very young, old or dogs with heart/lung disease are particularly at risk – for them, restraint in the heat is not a luxury, but rather protection. A thermometer in your medicine cabinet, a fan, and knowledge of these steps are the best tools to help your dog get through high temperatures. (SR)
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