Heatstroke in Pets: Signs, First Aid and Prevention

Bengaluru summers are kinder than the plains, but parked cars and midday walks still send pets to our emergency desk every May.

Early signs

Heavy panting, drooling, brick-red gums, wobbliness or vomiting after heat exposure mean act now.

First aid while you travel

• Move to shade, wet the belly, groin and paws with cool (not ice) water
• Offer small sips of water; do not force-feed
• Call ahead so we prep oxygen and IV fluids — emergency line answers 24×7

Prevention beats cure: walk before 8 AM, carry water, and give brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs, Persians) air-conditioned afternoons.