High summer temperatures are not only dangerous for humans but can be life-threatening for dogs. A heatstroke in dogs can turn fatal within minutes, especially when pets are left in parked cars. The dog app Dogorama issues an urgent warning and provides essential first aid tips for dogs.
Heatstroke in Dogs: Recognize Symptoms Immediately
“Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Ignoring the warning signs or waiting too long can cost your dog’s life,” warns Dogorama founder Jan Wittmann. Every year, dogs collapse within minutes, often because owners underestimate the risk. A quick errand or a slightly open window is not enough – a parked car can become deadly in no time.
Common symptoms of heatstroke in dogs include:
- heavy panting and shallow breathing
- rapid pulse, increased heart rate
- deep red tongue, pale gums
- vomiting, diarrhea, shaking, staggering, or seizures
- apathy, glassy eyes, weakness, or unconsciousness
First Aid for Dogs with Suspected Heatstroke
If heatstroke is suspected, every minute counts. Immediate action can save lives:
- Move the dog instantly to a cool, shaded area.
- Begin gradual cooling: apply cool (not ice-cold) water to the belly, head, and paws.
- Offer fresh, lukewarm water to drink — but never force it.
- Ensure good air circulation (e.g., with a fan).
- Even if symptoms improve, the dog must be examined by a veterinarian immediately.
- At a body temperature of 40 °C (104 °F), the dog’s life is already at serious risk.
Shocking Numbers: Dozens of Dogs Rescued from Cars
By mid-August 2025, Dogorama recorded 45 emergency cases of overheated dogs in cars, with 54 dogs rescued in total — sadly, two did not survive. In 2024, 60 dogs were rescued, with nine fatalities.
Did you know? At just 25 °C (77 °F) outside, the temperature inside a parked car can soar to 37 °C (98.6 °F) within minutes. That’s why experts warn: never leave dogs in the car, even at 20 °C.
Survey Reveals Dangerous Knowledge Gaps Among Dog Owners
A Dogorama survey with 340 participants showed alarming misunderstandings:
- Only 35% knew that 40 °C body temperature is already life-threatening.
- 21% wrongly believed the danger starts only at 42 °C.
- 47% correctly knew car interiors reach 37 °C within 15 minutes at 25 °C outside — 12% underestimated it.
- 38% thought leaving a dog in the car was safe until 25 °C.
“These results are shocking,” says Wittmann. “This lack of knowledge causes preventable emergencies every summer — too often with fatal outcomes.”
Tips for a Safe Summer with Your Dog
To keep dogs safe during hot weather, Dogorama shares practical guides on its blog:
With the right precautions, dogs and their owners can enjoy summer safely.
About Dogorama
Founded in 2019 by Jan Wittmann and Christoph Skorupa, Dogorama is one of the leading dog apps in the German-speaking market. It provides poison bait alerts, connects dog owners locally, and offers a large community for exchange and meetups. With over 850,000 users, Dogorama has become an essential digital companion for dog lovers.
Website: dogorama.app
