11/06/2023
Heat stroke can affect any dog, of any age, with or without medical conditions. Heat stroke kills. Dogs can not regulate their temperature in the way that humans do. If a dog becomes too hot, and they cannot lower their temperature by panting, they will develop heat stroke.
Now hereâs the important bit. Your dog doesnât need to walk in this heat. FULL STOP. Whether they look like they want to go, or you think theyâll have too much energy, walking a dog at these temperatures can cause heat stroke and/or cause their pads to burn walking on hot tarmac or road surfaces.
Ted was outside for a maximum of 5 minutes, just standing, mooching about the garden before I made him come inside. He came in hot and panting. Now imagine how your dog would feel going for a walk in this weather? đł
If you are going to walk your dog, I appreciate many people donât have gardens, take them out very early in the morning, ideally before 8am or late in the evening after 8pm. .
Things you can do at home to keep them cool, cooling vests are amazing, Ted is modelling one here for you, all you do is soak it in cool water and put it on your dog. Itâs as simple as that. Just make sure you keep it wet, youâll probably find you need to dowse it in water every 30 minutes in this heat (If you donât own a cool vest, draping a cold wet towel over them will work the same way). Cool mats, aldi sell them for about ÂŁ5 and theyâre filled with pressure activated cooling gel (just make sure you donât leave a chewer unattended), keep them out of the sun where you can, make use of fans (or if youâre lucky, aircon đđź) and please for love of your pet, do not take them in the car if you have to make a stop anywhere.
If your dog does start to show any signs of heat stroke, get them in the shade as quickly as possible, wet them down and cover them in wet towels whilst you seek immediate veterinary advice. I cannot stress this enough, call your vet immediately if you see any signs at all of heatstroke! These include:
- heavy panting or breathing difficulties
- excessive drooling
- lethargy, drowsiness or uncoordinated behaviour
- collapse or vomiting
- abnormal gum colour
- seizures
Well all love our dogs, we all wants best for them, so keep them safe in this heat.
Look after your four legged friends đ
