16/06/2022
With the heatwave we are experiencing this week, and extremely high temperatures forecast tomorrow, we would like to issue a reminder that hot weather can be a risk to dogs, potentially causing heatstroke or paw scalds. Please share these tips with all your dog loving friends to keep all the pooches safe in the upcoming heat! Here are a few tips on what to look out for and how to safely care for your dog in warm weather.
π Your dog should always have access to clean water and shaded, cool surfaces for them to lay on. Try making use of cooling mats or, for water loving dogs, a paddling pool to splash in.
π Overexertion is the main cause of canine heatstroke. Exercise your dog when it is cooler in the early morning or late evening. If you think it may still be too hot, skip the walk and give your dog some enrichment to stimulate their brain instead! You can find enrichment ideas on our website
π Never leave your dog in a parked car or stuffy room! The air temperature in a car can increase by 10 degrees in 10 minutes. Small rooms and conservatories can also become incredibly hot without ventilation.
π Be careful of the temperature of artificial surfaces, they can be uncomfortable for your dog to walk on and even cause scalds. People are aware tarmac holds heat and can become too hot for your dog to stand on but the increasingly popular artificial grass also stores much more heat than natural surfaces. To check the temperature of a surface, place the back of your hand against it for 7 seconds. If it is too hot for you, it is too hot for your dog.
π¨ The biggest risk to dogs in hot weather is heatstroke. It is extremely serious and can be fatal. Symptoms include heavy breathing, excessive drooling, lethargy or stupor, vomiting and collapse. If your dog shows signs of heatstroke contact your vet immediately. To provide emergency first aid, move the dog to a cool area and apply small amounts of tepid water to the dog with your hands or a wet towel. Do not pour water over your dog or immerse them in water, it is important to bring their temperature down gradually π¨
Be extra careful with older, overweight, long-haired, infant or short-nosed dogs, like pugs and bulldogs, as they are more prone to overheating.