When summer arrives in Hong Kong, the scorching weather makes everyone crave air-conditioned rooms—but your furry friend might be facing a life-threatening risk: heatstroke! According to the Hong Kong SPCA, heatstroke cases in dogs surge by 40% between May and September, with short-nosed breeds (like French Bulldogs and Pugs) and overweight dogs being the most vulnerable.

Why Are Dogs Prone to Heatstroke?
Unlike humans, dogs lack sweat glands. They rely on panting and their paw pads to cool down. But with Hong Kong’s summer humidity hitting 80%, their ability to dissipate heat drops by half! Add the urban "heat island" effect from concrete, and even nights stay relentlessly hot, putting extra stress on dogs’ cooling systems.

High-Risk Dogs:

-Flat-faced breeds: Their shortened airways reduce heat dissipation to just 40% of normal dogs’ capacity.

-Long-haired breeds (e.g., Maltese, Shih Tzu): Body temperature rises rapidly.

-Overweight & senior dogs: Struggle harder to regulate heat.

Recognizing Heatstroke:

-Rapid panting, excessive drooling (even foaming)

-Gums turning bright red or purplish

-Collapse, seizures, or shock

-Body temperature exceeding 40°C

First Aid Tips:

1. Move your dog to shade immediately and use a fan.

2. Apply lukewarm (25-30°C) wet towels to the groin, armpits, and neck.

3. → Avoid ice water or spraying directly, as it can worsen the condition!

4. Stop cooling once their temperature drops to 39.5°C to prevent hypothermia.

Hong Kong-Specific Prevention:

- Walk dogs after sunset (avoid midday sun).

- Carry water and ice cubes for hydration/cooling.

- Never leave dogs in cars or enclosed carriers.

- Limit outdoor activity for flat-faced or cardio-compromised dogs.

- Invest in a cooling vest for walks.