Dog heatstroke at the beach: signs and what to do

Signs of heatstroke in dogs

Early warning signs

• Excessive, loud panting
• Drooling more than usual
• Becoming restless or agitated
• Slowing down, unwilling to continue walking
• Seeking shade urgently

Serious signs that need immediate action

• Thick, rope-like saliva
• Bright red or very pale gums
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Stumbling, loss of coordination
• Muscle tremors
• Collapse or loss of consciousness

What to do if your dog shows signs of heatstroke

• Move to shade immediately. Get the dog out of direct sun at once.
• Pour cool, not cold, water over the dog. Focus on the neck, armpits and groin. Iced water can make blood vessels constrict and slow cooling, so use cool or tepid water.
• Offer small amounts of cool water to drink. Do not force the dog to drink.
• Fan the dog. Airflow speeds cooling dramatically.
• Call a vet immediately. Even if the dog seems to recover, heatstroke can cause internal organ damage that is not visible. Always seek veterinary attention.
• Get to a vet as quickly as possible and keep cooling the dog during the journey.

Do not

• Cover the dog in wet towels, which can trap heat
• Immerse the dog completely in cold water
• Give human medications
• Wait to see if the dog improves on its own

Dogs most at risk on Devon beaches

• Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds: bulldogs, French bulldogs, pugs and boxers, as panting is less efficient for them
• Older dogs, which regulate temperature less effectively
• Overweight dogs, as extra body mass generates more heat
• Young puppies, which are less able to regulate body temperature
• Double-coated breeds: huskies, malamutes, chow chows and similar, poorly suited to British summer heat

If you walk an older dog, our beaches for older dogs guide picks out flatter, shadier, easier options.

Prevention: staying safe on Devon beaches

• Visit early in the morning or after 5pm in hot weather, the coolest parts of the day. Where restrictions allow, early mornings are ideal.
• Always have shade available, such as a beach umbrella or shelter. Full kit advice is in our beach packing guide.
• Bring more fresh water than you think you need.
• Never leave your dog in a car, even briefly. The inside of a car can reach 60C on a warm day.
• Wet sand feels cool but absorbs heat. Check the sand temperature before letting your dog walk on it.
• Know the signs and trust your instincts. If you are worried, act immediately.