Overview
- The warning came from the online vet Things Can Only Get Vetter in a video posted on Friday that has been widely shared during the UK heatwave.
- The vet said owners should begin cooling an overheated dog right away using cold water rather than only tepid or room‑temperature water because faster cooling reduces harm.
- For younger dogs the vet recommended full immersion in cold water to drop body temperature quickly while older or frail dogs should be hosed or have cold water poured over them.
- The vet cautioned against covering dogs with cold wet towels because that can trap heat, and advised using a fan or breeze to speed evaporative cooling.
- After starting home first aid, the vet urged owners to get emergency veterinary treatment as quickly as possible because heatstroke can cause organ damage and carries a high mortality rate.