06/08/2022
Get ready people!
☀️ HOT WEATHER ALERT - DANGERS OF WATER☀️
A hot weather alert has been issued in the UK for the next few days and Europe is already in the grip of a heatwave. As well as taking care of ourselves and others, we also need to protect our pets. As well as heat stroke, there is a risk of water intoxication from drinking a large volume of water in a short period of time and salt poisoning from drinking too much seawater. The VPIS has received a number of enquiries recently about dogs with these conditions.
Salt poisoning can result in vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, drinking excessively, and in severe cases convulsions. If you are at the beach, always provide access to fresh water for your dog.
If playing with water in the garden (e.g. in a paddling pool or with a hose) be careful not to allow your dog to drink too much water over a short period of time because this can lead to water intoxication. Signs of water intoxication included vomiting, lethargy, weakness, coma and convulsions.
If your pet is unwell with suspected heatstroke, or is showing signs of possible water intoxication or salt poisoning, consult your vet immediately