I feel strongly about this: leaving animals in cars on sunny days breaks my heart. Even a few minutes in a parked car can be fatal for dogs and other pets, even with the windows cracked or the car in the shade. As UK temperatures rise above typical averages and more hot weather is expected, Regtransfers shares five signs that a pet may be overheating in the car, along with guidance on what you can do to help.
Excessive Panting or Difficulty Breathing
Panting is a natural cooling mechanism for pets, but very rapid, shallow, or laboured breathing can be an early sign of heatstroke. If your dog is panting frantically or seems to be gasping, they may be dangerously overheated. If you suspect overheating, move them to a shaded or cool area, ideally indoors with air conditioning or a fan. Offer small amounts of cool water to drink at their own pace, but don’t add ice. Cool, damp towels can help lower their body temperature, especially around the neck, armpits, and paw pads. Avoid giving a cold-water or ice bath, as this can constrict blood vessels and make overheating worse. Most importantly, call your vet immediately for further guidance, even if your dog starts to improve.
Bright Red or Pale Gums
In the early stages of overheating, gums may turn bright red; in more severe cases, they may appear pale or bluish—both can indicate circulatory distress. If the gum colour worries you, check your dog’s responsiveness by calling their name or trying to engage them with a treat or toy (be cautious about feeding them during this time). If the gum colour is abnormal, it could signal reduced blood flow and a need for urgent care. Continue cooling as described above and prepare to transport them to an emergency vet. Note any changes in gum colour or breathing to help the vet assess the severity on arrival.
Drooling and Vomiting
Thick drool, retching, or vomiting can indicate the body is struggling to regulate its temperature. These symptoms often follow heavy panting and should be treated as a medical emergency. If your dog begins retching or vomiting, stop activity immediately and move them to a calm, cool space. You may be tempted to feed them, but try to resist, as vomiting can worsen with food. As with the cooling tips above, offer small amounts of water and keep your dog cool with damp towels or cooling air. Vomiting raises the risk of dehydration and shock, so act quickly and call your vet or go to the nearest emergency clinic.
Lethargy, Confusion, or Collapse
If your pet seems disoriented, unresponsive, or collapses, their internal temperature may be dangerously high. Call your vet or an emergency clinic immediately and tell them you’re on the way. While transporting, keep the car well-ventilated and continue cooling with damp towels or fans. Try to keep their head slightly elevated and speak to them calmly, but avoid overhandling or causing additional stress.
Seizures or Muscle Tremors
In the final stages of heatstroke, pets may experience tremors, seizures, or fall into a coma. These are life-threatening and require urgent action. Clear the area of objects that could harm your pet during a seizure. Don’t try to restrain them, but protect their head and limbs gently if possible. You can continue to cool the environment with fans or damp towels, but avoid pouring water directly on their face or mouth. Stay calm and act quickly to transport them to the nearest emergency vet clinic. Call ahead to ensure staff are prepared. If you have help, one person should drive while the other monitors your pet’s breathing and movements.
Leaving your dog unattended in a hot car isn’t explicitly illegal in the UK, but it can lead to animal cruelty charges if a dog is harmed or dies as a result. If you see a dog in distress in a hot car, call 999 immediately, note the car’s registration and location, and provide this information to authorities if asked. Do not attempt to break into the car yourself unless advised by authorities.
