17/06/2022
Hot weather is on its way!
It is extremely important to know how to keep our pets happy during the warm summer months - after all, they don’t get to take off their fur coats! Unfortunately, heat stroke is very common and sadly can be fatal.
What is heat stroke?
Heat stroke is when the body temperature exceeds the normal range due to high environmental temperatures. This can happen extremely quickly and is often fatal.
Signs of heat stroke:
• Collapse
• Lethargy/restlessness
• Excessive panting
• Confusion/disorientation
• Fast heart rate
• Red gums
• Vomiting/diarrhoea
If you think your dog is experiencing signs of heat stroke, it is an emergency. Take them to your vet immediately for life saving care.
Here are some tips for cooling and prevention of heat stroke:
• Only walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening, when environmental temperatures have dropped...
OR not at all! Some days it is just too hot to walk! Especially for some dogs eg. elderly, brachycephalic (short faced breeds like pugs/frenchies), overweight dogs and puppies.
• Do not walk your dog on hot ground, specifically tarmac. If you can’t walk bare-foot on the ground comfortably – neither can your dog!
• Keep lots of cold fresh water available, inside and outside!
• Ensure there is shade for your pet, inside and outside!
• Provide cooling mats, ice packs and/or fans on hot days
• Hard plastic paddling pools are a great way to cool dogs down in the garden
• Sometimes having your cat/dog groomed if they are long haired can help, although some breeds coats enable cooling – if in doubt chat to your groomer or vet!
We hope you and your pets stay safe and cool this summer! If you have any questions about this just give us a call at the practice. 01825764268