As the scorching weather continues across the country, families will be heading to beaches and popular destinations in the UK to soak up the rays.
Pet lovers will be enjoying taking their animals out for a walk in nice weather for once, and some dogs might even be lucky enough to travel abroad this summer.
However, keeping your dog cool in hot weather is extremely important for their health, and can be achieved by just being prepared for certain scenarios.
As well as having fun when the weather gets nicer it’s important to think about keeping your dog safe in the heat. The aim is to reduce the risk of heatstroke and make sure your dog stays healthy and happy.
Experts from the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home have shared their best tips when it comes to keeping your dog cool in the hot weather and the important signs of heat stroke.
Be aware of signs of heat stroke
Heatstroke develops when a dog can't reduce their body temperature and it can be fatal. This can happen not just when it’s hot, but also in warm temperatures.
It is important to know how to avoid it and be aware of the signs as it requires urgent treatment.
Any dog can develop heatstroke, but overweight, young, elderly, flat-faced, giant-breed, and thick-coated dogs are particularly at risk, even from just sitting out in hot weather.
Signs of heatstroke include:
- Heavy panting
- Lethargy
- Confusion or loss of co-ordination
- Drooling or foaming at the mouth
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Shaking or weakness
- Seizures
If you think your dog has heatstroke, you need to act quickly, and make sure you contact your vet immediately. While contacting the vets, pet owners should be doing the following:
- Move the dog to a shaded and cool area
- Keep them calm and still
- Put them on top of a cool wet towel, cooling mat or place them in the breeze of a fan
- Allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water
- Pour cool water over the dog’s feet, ears and head. Never use ice or very cold water as this can cause shock
- Gradually start to move cool water over their body but not too much that they start shivering.
- If possible, continue cooling your dog on the way to your vet
How to keep your dog cool during a heatwave
Plan ahead for summer walks
Avoid walking your dog if the weather is hot as dogs are not able to cope in the heat as well as humans can. Even a warm day can predispose dogs to overheating, especially if they’re exercising in the open.
Consider if your dog may be safer going for a gentle walk very early or late in the evening when the temperature has significantly reduced or do some stimulating activities at home.
It is important to be mindful of the weather when planning a walk and take regular breaks in the shade.
Always carry water with you
Water is essential for your dog all year round, especially on a hot day.
If you're out and about with your dog, make sure you always have a bottle of water and a bowl for them to drink from.
Protect their paws
Surfaces which heat up in the sun, such as tarmac or sand, can be painful for your dog’s paws.
If you are in any doubt, check for yourself. If it feels too hot for you to touch on the back or palm of your hand, the chances are your dog's thinking the same - so try to stick to grassy or shaded areas instead.
Use their energy up in safe ways
Running around in extreme weather isn't safe for a human, so it definitely is not safe for any animal with a fur coat. So, instead of hiking long distances, owners can create some stimulating activities for their dog that can get their energy out without exhausting them from the heat
Freezing their toys is a great idea, or hiding them is also a smart way to keep the pets entertained.
Another great way to keep your dog cool but happy is by filling a paddling pool with cold water and toys, which will keep them entertained and at a regular temperature.
Never leave a dog in a car unattended
Leaving a dog alone in a hot car can be fatal – even parked in the shade with the windows open, dogs can become distressed and uncomfortable and develop heat stroke very quickly.
Make sure you always have a plan, so your dog isn't left alone in the car or any other enclosed spaces. If you see a dog in a hot car, dial 999.
If you do have to make a car journey with your dog on a hot day, it is important to keep them cool and calm.
Make sure that you use shade covers on the windows, so they don’t have direct sun on them whilst you are travelling. If possible, cool your car down and have the air conditioning on before putting your dog in.
Avoid travelling at hotter times of the day and consider travelling when there is less traffic, so you don’t get stuck for long periods of time.
Ensure your dog has access to water throughout the journey as well.
Be careful near bodies of water
It can be tempting to encourage your dog to swim, especially when the weather is warmer.
Be mindful that some places can be unsafe and might have strong currents that can be dangerous, or algae and bacteria which could make your dog sick.
Instead, try to find clear, clean shallow streams your dog can paddle in briefly to cool off, ensure you provide them with separate clean water in a water bowl for them to drink.
Groom your dog regularly
It is also important to keep your dog well-groomed, not only for their physical beauty, but for their health as well. A clean and clipped coat can keep your dog cooler than they would be with an unkempt coat.
Speak to a professional groomer as they will know what’s best for your dog and their specific coat.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond - Sign up to our newsletter here.
