If your dog has heat stroke, the veterinary ER will focus on lowering their body temperature, supporting circulation, and checking for damage to organs. Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency, even if your dog seems to improve after cooling down.
Move your dog to a cool, shaded place and call the nearest emergency veterinarian while you arrange transport. Wet your dog’s coat with cool or room-temperature water and use a fan or air conditioning. Offer small amounts of cool water if your dog is alert and able to drink, but do not force water into their mouth. Do not delay the trip to the ER to continue cooling at home.
The veterinary team will assess your dog’s temperature, breathing, heart rate, and level of responsiveness. They may continue controlled cooling with water and airflow, stopping when appropriate to prevent the temperature from falling too low. A dog having difficulty breathing may receive oxygen.
The ER may place an intravenous catheter to give fluids and medications. Treatment depends on your dog’s condition: some dogs need help managing shock, seizures, abnormal blood clotting, or other complications. The team will monitor temperature and vital signs closely as treatment continues.
Blood and urine tests can help the veterinarian assess hydration, blood sugar, clotting, and organ function. Heat stroke can injure the kidneys, liver, brain, and digestive tract, and some complications may become apparent after your dog’s temperature returns to normal.
Your dog may need hospitalization for repeat testing, fluids, and observation. Before discharge, ask the veterinary team when your dog can resume normal activity and what changes should prompt an immediate call. At home, provide a cool, quiet space and follow their instructions for water, food, and medications.
Our team recommends learning the warning signs before an emergency. Visit our guide to spotting heat stroke in dogs for signs and emergency care steps.
A veterinary ER uses controlled cooling and monitors your dog’s vital signs. The team may also give oxygen, IV fluids, and medications while testing for complications.
A dog may need hospitalization for one or more days, depending on the severity of the heat stroke and any complications. The veterinarian will recommend discharge when your dog is stable enough for care at home.
Recovery time varies: a dog with mild complications may improve within days, while organ injury can require weeks of treatment or longer. Follow your veterinarian’s recheck schedule, even if your dog seems back to normal.
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