Avoid heatstroke and keep your dog cool and happy in hot weather with this advice from veterinary surgeon, Corinne Wigfall.
Dogs often struggle in the heat and are much more at risk of heatstroke than humans. A dog’s internal body temperature rising too high can lead to organ failure, which is potentially fatal.
What are the symptoms of heatstroke in dogs?
It’s so important for pet owners to know and watch out for heatstroke symptoms, so they can act quickly if needed. The main signs include heavy panting, an increased breathing rate, open mouth breathing or panting, purple or blue gums, collapse, lethargy, or vomiting.
What to do if you suspect your dog has heatstroke?
Get your pet to the vet immediately if you spot any symptoms of heatstroke, while starting to cool them down. This might include getting them in shade, laying them on a cool floor, adding water to the coat with a sponge, or positioning them near a fan or air-con.
Sadly, not all dogs who suffer from heat stroke survive, and the risks are increased with brachycephalic breeds such as the Frenchie or Pug. So the quicker you can act, the better. With that said, preventative measures during the warmer months is always key.
How to keep your dog cool in hot weather
Dr Corinne has shared five useful tips for keeping your four-legged friend cool this summer:
Avoid the midday sun
Whether you’re heading to the beach, the park, or for a walk, time your outing for early morning or early evening. This helps you and your dog to avoid the hottest part of the day, usually 10am-2pm.
Hot pavements can burn your dog’s foot pads so make sure to do a pavement check before you go for a walk. This is done by placing the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds. If it’s too painful for you, then it will be too painful for your dog to walk on.
Always carry water
You should always have water on hand for your four-legged friend, but this is especially important on hot days. Portable dog water bottles and collapsible bowls are a great way to hydrate your dog at the park, beach, or on walks.
Remember to keep their water bowl at home topped up with clean fresh water throughout the day. Adding ice to the water bottle or bowl is a great way to keep the water refreshingly cool for your dog to enjoy.
Encourage your dog to play in water
Many dogs love to play in water and this is also a great way to keep cool. Try setting up a paddling pool or sprinkler in the garden.
Your dog can also splash around in the waves at a dog-friendly beach if it’s safe to do so.
Never leave them alone in the car
It’s never safe to leave your dog in a car on a hot day, even to pop into the shop for a few minutes. Your dog will be at risk of death, and you are at risk of prosecution.
Can police break a window to save a dog?
In the UK the police have the authority to break a car window to rescue an animal but the general public don't. The RSPCA have this advice on what to do if you see a dog in a car on a warm day
Be wary of travelling with your dog during the hottest part of the day. Take breaks if you’re heading on a long journey and keep the windows open or air-con on so they don’t get too hot. Some dogs enjoy using cool mats on longer journeys.
Make sure they’ve got a shady spot
No matter what you’ve got planned, make sure your four-legged friend has access to a shaded area. For example, take a tent or umbrella with you if you’re headed on a trip to the beach.
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Veterinary surgeon Corinne Wigfall, who works with Petsure, is originally from Wales and moved to New Zealand after graduating university.