As November rolls in, the South African sun begins to show its true strength. While we humans might welcome the warmer days for braais and beach trips, the rising temperatures pose a serious, sometimes silent, threat to our dogs: heatstroke. Unlike us, dogs cannot sweat through their skin to cool down. They rely primarily on panting and releasing heat through their paw pads, a system that is far less efficient than our own, especially in our harsh climate.

Heatstroke (hyperthermia) happens when a dog’s body temperature rises to a critical level that they cannot regulate, leading to organ failure and, if untreated, death. It can happen frighteningly fast—sometimes in a matter of minutes.

Knowing the Signs

Early detection is the difference between life and death. You need to know what “too hot” looks like before it becomes a crisis. Watch out for these red flags:

• Excessive Panting: This is the first sign. If the panting is heavy, rapid, and doesn’t stop when the dog rests, pay attention.
• Drooling: Thick, ropey saliva is a common symptom.
• Colour Change: Check the gums and tongue. If they are bright red, purple, or even blue, your dog is in distress.
• Lethargy and Confusion: A heat-struck dog may seem dizzy, uncoordinated, or unwilling to move.
• Vomiting or Diarrhoea: This indicates the internal organs are beginning to suffer.
• Collapse: If your dog collapses, this is a severe medical emergency.

Prevention is Better Than Cure

Living in South Africa means we need to be hyper-vigilant. Prevention is simple but requires a change in routine during summer:

1. Time Your Walks: The pavement can reach scorching temperatures that burn paw pads and radiate heat upwards. Avoid walking your dog between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Stick to early mornings or late evenings when the ground is cool to the touch.

2. Hydration is Key: Fresh, cool water must be available 24/7. If you are out, carry a collapsible bowl and water bottle. You can also add moisture to their diet by mixing a little water into their dry kibble or offering wet food options during hotter spells.

3. Never Leave Them in the Car: This cannot be stressed enough. Even with windows cracked, a car parked in the SA sun can turn into an oven within minutes. It is never safe. Leave them at home where it is cool.

4. Shade and Shelter: If your dog spends time outside, ensure they have access to deep shade and proper ventilation. A dog house in direct sunlight traps heat; open shade under a tree or a patio is far better.

What to Do in an Emergency

If you suspect heatstroke, act immediately:

1. Move the dog to a cool, shaded area or an air-conditioned room.
2. Offer small amounts of cool (not ice-cold) water to drink.
3. Wet their coat with cool water or place damp towels on their back. Do not use ice water, as this can constrict blood vessels and trap heat inside the body.
4. Direct a fan onto them to aid evaporation.
5. Get to a vet immediately. Even if they seem to cool down, internal organ damage can be invisible.

This summer, let’s enjoy the sunshine responsibly. By keeping a close eye on the temperature and your furry friend’s behaviour, you can ensure a safe and happy summer for the whole family.