As a mum of three and a proud owner of two dogs, I know how tempting it can be to leave your pup in the car for “just a few minutes.” But even on a mild day, the inside of a parked car can heat up frighteningly fast—something that can prove fatal for pets. Windows left slightly open or parking in the shade might seem like enough, but sadly, it’s not.
With UK temperatures recently soaring past seasonal averages—and more hot spells predicted—it’s crucial to know the warning signs that your pet may be overheating and what you can do to help. Thanks to insights from Regtransfers, here are five key signs of overheating in pets and the immediate actions you should take to protect their wellbeing.
1. Excessive Panting or Difficulty Breathing
Panting is how dogs naturally cool themselves, but if your pup is panting heavily, rapidly, or seems to be gasping, it’s a clear warning sign. This kind of frantic breathing can be the first stage of heatstroke.
What to do:
Move your pet into a shaded or cool area—indoors with a fan or air conditioning if possible. Offer small sips of cool (not ice-cold) water, and avoid giving ice. You can help lower their temperature with cool, damp towels around their neck, under their armpits, and on their paws.
Don’t give them a cold-water or ice bath. It can actually make things worse by constricting blood vessels. And no matter how much they seem to improve, always call your vet straight away for advice.
2. Bright Red or Pale Gums
Check their gums—yes, really. If they’re bright cherry red, it’s a red flag. If they’re pale or bluish, things may already be quite serious. Both signs point to circulatory distress, which means your pet’s blood flow could be dangerously compromised.
What to do:
Call their name gently or try to get their attention with a toy to check responsiveness. Continue the cooling techniques above and make preparations to take them to the emergency vet immediately. Note any changes in their breathing or gum colour, as this info will help your vet assess the severity.
3. Drooling and Vomiting
If you notice thick drool, vomiting, or retching, this is your pet’s body struggling to regulate its temperature—and it’s a medical emergency.
What to do:
Stop all activity and move them somewhere cool and calm. Don’t offer food, even if they seem hungry—vomiting could worsen. Let them sip water slowly and keep them cool with airflow or wet towels. Heatstroke can lead to dehydration and shock quickly, so call your vet or head to an emergency clinic immediately.
4. Lethargy, Confusion, or Collapse
When a pet becomes disoriented, unusually quiet, or worse—collapses—this signals a dangerously high internal temperature. Immediate action is vital.
What to do:
Call the emergency vet and tell them you’re on your way. During transport, keep your car well-ventilated and continue cooling your pet with damp towels or a fan. Keep their head slightly elevated and talk to them gently, but avoid overstimulation.
5. Seizures or Muscle Tremors
In the most severe cases, pets may experience tremors, seizures, or even fall into a coma. These are life-threatening signs that demand urgent attention.
What to do:
If your dog starts seizing, clear away anything nearby that could cause injury. Don’t try to restrain them—instead, protect their head and limbs if you can. Keep them cool with airflow or wet towels, but avoid pouring water over their face or mouth.
Stay calm, but act fast. Get them to the nearest emergency vet, and call ahead if you can so the team is ready for your arrival. If you’re not alone, have one person drive while the other keeps an eye on your pet’s breathing and condition.
A Final Word on Pet Safety in Hot Cars
Leaving your dog alone in a hot car isn’t just dangerous—it can be fatal. While it’s not explicitly illegal in the UK, if your pet suffers harm or dies due to being left in a hot vehicle, you could face charges of animal cruelty.
If you ever see a dog locked in a car on a hot day and showing signs of distress, call 999 immediately. Make a note of the car’s registration, make, model, and location, and share this information with the authorities. Unless you’ve been advised by the police, avoid breaking into the car yourself.
As a dog mum myself, I urge every pet owner to treat overheating as seriously as we would with our children. Prevention is everything—but knowing what to look out for can be lifesaving too.
Stay safe, and keep those pups cool!