As the temperature starts to rise and we see sunnier days, it’s a good time to think about the comfort of your dog/s in the heat. Naturally, there are things we can do to help your dog in the heat:
cooling mats
applying suncream (especially dogs with white fur)
keeping your dog/s fur shorter
making sure there is always a supply of water and shaded areas for your dog/s to escape the heat and the sun
avoid walking your pet in the hottest part of the day
check the temperature of the pavements for their paws
always carry water if you go out
pupsicles always go down well (you can find dog friendly recipes on line with ease)
Be extra careful with Brachy breeds in the sunshine. These breeds suffer more in the heat than other breed types.
Never leave your dog in a car, temperatures in a car rise very quickly and whilst it maybe okay to transport them in an air conditioned vehicle, once that vehicle stops it will become very hot again for the dog/s. It is okay not to take your dog/s out with you, in fact they will be better at home in the cool. Of course, all of this is just good practice and common sense for any good dog owner, however you would be surprised at the amount of deaths related to animals being left in the heat of a vehicle.
The RSPCA’s campaign “Dogs Die in Hot Cars” states very clearly that if you see a dog in distress to call 999. There is also another guidance number 0300 1234 999. They advise not to break the car window as you may be held accountable for criminal damage. If you are extremely concerned for the animals welfare and there are obvious signs of stress and heatstroke - take photos, video the dog/s, get witnesses (names/telephone numbers), call 999 and advise them of what you intend to do and why.
Read all the facts relating to this : https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/dogsinhotcars
Naturally, that is quite a scary situation to be in but it is not just vehicles you need to be mindful of, as even at home a dog/s can suffer heat stroke and can die. Heat stroke is very serious and it shouldn’t be taken lightly.
So, the things to look out for with heatstroke:
diarrhoea
weakness
excessive panting
vomiting
seizures
shaking
confusion
red gums - if your dog’s gum colour turns bright red, then this could be heatstroke (be aware of a normal gum colour - more pink)
foaming at the mouth
collapse
If you are faced with any of the above and you are aware that the dog/s may be suffering heatstroke, then you should remove them out of the sun to a shaded area. Keep them calm and still, as best possible. Try to get them to drink (not ice or ice water). Get a good air flow in the area, placing a cooled wet towel underneath them if you are able to do so. Apply cool water (not ice or ice water) to the dogs ears, fur, feet and top of their head. DO NOT apply to the whole body until the dog/s seems cooler. DO NOT tip water over your dog/s, merely place water on them. This can be continued until you are seen by your vet.
Call your vet and seek advice, make an appointment to get seen URGENTLY.
All the above doesn’t mention the fact that with heat, comes storms. If your dog/s are anything like ours - well they simply hate thunder and the anxiety of an incoming storm is often witnessed hours prior to any clap of thunder of splash of rain. Read my blog on fireworks on how you can help your dog to deal with situations of anxiety, such as allowing them a hiding space.
Clearly, I am not trying to make you all fearful of the sun. Who knows it makes us all feel brighter! I am merely trying to give you some pointers. In the main, just look out for them as they can’t tell you!
Happy Summer 2022!
All views and opinions are my own. If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s dog you should seek advice from professional services (useful contacts can be found here).
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