Indian summers aren’t just uncomfortable, they can be dangerous, especially for dogs.

Unlike humans, dogs cannot regulate their body temperature efficiently. They rely primarily on panting to cool down, which makes them far more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses. In cities like Mumbai, where heat and humidity often combine, the risk of heatstroke increases significantly.

At Pet’s Paradise, a 24×7 veterinary hospital, cases of heatstroke rise sharply during peak summer months, many of them preventable. This year, cases have been common as early as March, with one of our clients even requiring an emergency home visit for their pet, just last week. Their pet was an older beagle who had already been weakened by unrelated illness, prior to his heatstroke, making the case even more severe. While in this instance, Dr Ami and her team were able to help, early intervention is crucial. Here’s everything you need to know.

What exactly is heatstroke?

Heatstroke occurs when a dog’s body temperature rises above safe levels (typically above 40°C) and they are unable to cool themselves down.

This can lead to organ failure, brain damage, and in severe cases, can be fatal.

Early signs you should never ignore

Heatstroke doesn’t always look dramatic at first, but it progresses quickly. Watch for:

 Excessive panting
 • Rapid, heavy breathing even at rest
 • Tongue hanging out more than usual

Drooling and dehydration
 • Thick saliva
 • Dry or sticky gums

Weakness or lethargy
 • Slowing down during walks
 • Reluctance to move

Vomiting or diarrhoea
 • May sometimes contain blood

Disorientation
 • Stumbling, confusion, or unusual behaviour

 Advanced symptoms (critical stage)
 • Collapse or seizures
 • Unconsciousness

Dr Sanghavi notes that by the time severe symptoms appear, the condition may already be life-threatening.

 Situations that commonly lead to heatstroke

Many cases are not accidents, but everyday situations that go unnoticed:

• Walks during peak afternoon heat
 • Lack of shade or ventilation
 • Being left in parked cars (even briefly)
 • High humidity reducing the effectiveness of panting
 • Over-exercising in warm weather

Flat-faced breeds (like pugs) and older dogs are particularly at risk.

What to do immediately

If you suspect heatstroke:

• Move your dog to a cool, shaded area immediately
 • Offer small amounts of water (do not force)
 • Use cool (not ice-cold) water on their body
 • Focus on paws, belly, and ears for cooling
 • Seek veterinary care immediately

Even if your dog appears to recover, internal damage may still be present.

What NOT to do

Cooling a dog incorrectly can make things worse:

• Do not use ice-cold water or ice baths
 • Do not force large amounts of water
 • Do not delay veterinary care after initial cooling
 • Do not assume rest alone will resolve the issue

Why prompt veterinary care is essential

Heatstroke affects multiple organs, including the brain, kidneys, and heart. Complications such as internal bleeding and shock may not be immediately visible.

At Pet’s Paradise, emergency care includes temperature stabilisation, IV fluids, oxygen support, and continuous monitoring.

Dr Ami Sanghavi advises that even mild cases should be evaluated, as complications can develop hours later.

Preventing heatstroke in Indian summers

Prevention is far easier and safer than treatment:

• Walk dogs early morning or late evening
 • Always provide access to fresh water
 • Ensure shaded, well-ventilated resting areas
 • Avoid hot surfaces like asphalt
 • Never leave pets in parked vehicles

Heatstroke is one of the most serious, yet preventable  summer emergencies in dogs. A few small precautions can make a significant difference.

When temperatures rise, awareness becomes the first line of protection.