Epidemiology of heat‐related illness in dogs under UK emergency veterinary care in 2022

Abstract

BackgroundDogs are exposed to increasing environmental risk for developing heat‐related illness (HRI), with 2022 recorded as the hottest year to date in the UK and most of Europe.MethodsThis study used VetCompass data to report the incidence risk, event fatality rate and canine risk factors for HRI in dogs presenting to Vets Now emergency care practices in the UK during 2022.ResultsFrom the clinical records of 167,751 dogs under care at Vets Now emergency clinics in 2022, 384 HRI events were identified. The 2022 incidence risk of HRI within the Vets Now caseload was 0.23% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.21%‒0.25%), with an event fatality rate of 26.56% (95% CI: 21.66%–32.25%). Multivariable analysis identified breed, age and sex/neuter status as risk factors for HRI. Brachycephalic dogs had 4.21 times the odds of HRI compared to mesocephalic dogs (95% CI: 3.22‒5.49, p < 0.001).LimitationsThe clinical data used in this study were not primarily recorded for research and had some substantial levels of missing data (especially patient bodyweight).ConclusionIn order to protect canine welfare, improved long‐term mitigation strategies are urgently needed to minimise HRI risk and associated fatality in UK dogs.