Heat stress or heat stroke occurs when animals are confined in hot environments. Motor vehicles prove a real danger for animals locked in the sun where the temperature can rise to lethal levels very quickly.

All animals are affected by heat stress, however dogs with short noses such as the Bull Dog, Pekinese, Pug, and Boxer are particularly at risk.

When suffering from heat stroke, a dog will initially show an increase in activity associated with panting and vocalisation - usually barking or whining. The dog will become agitated, often with a worried or furrowed expression.

As heat stroke progresses, the panting becomes excessive and laboured with the dog showing an inability to breathe properly.

The dog usually drools excessively and may vomit. If the suffering continues, the dog will suffer circulatory collapse, its gums will appear blue and it will convulse or become unconscious.

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