Scotland is set to hit the high-20's tomorrow and Tuesday with an amber weather warning in place that cautions Scots to remain mindful about their own health and the health of those around them. Among those that may need some extra attention are our furry pals, dogs.
Official guidance from the government says that you should not transport your pet or leave it in a car while the warning is in place. However, there is more that you should be doing on top of that.
It is important to keep your pet hydrated, regularly topping up its bowl with cold and fresh water. Also keep an eye on your pooch for any changes in behaviour, as it may be a sign of heatstroke.
There is also another tip that experts have shared that can help you keep your dog cool not only during the amber warnings, but through the entirety of summer. It will only put you back 70p and could be a game-changer for your pup, says the Mirror.
Experts suggest getting a 70p misting spray bottle filled with icy-cold water to spray your dog down. This costs a whole lot less than a paddling pool and can help you cool your pet off if it's too hot for them outside.
A spokeswoman from retail company Tap Warehouse said: "Keep your pets cool with a spray bottle filled with cold water and gently spray over their body and feet. This will give a cooling effect and relax your pets as some can get distressed when they overheat. Better yet, reusable spray bottles can be bought for just 70p from The Range."
Owners have also been encouraged to add ice cubes to their dog's water bowls or treat them to an inexpensive 'dog cooling toy' this summer, instead of buying them another squeaky toy or bouncy ball.
A spokeswoman added: "You can also add regular ice cubes to your dog's water bowl to keep it cool, or simply give them a few to chew on. It's a fun activity for them and it will also help them to cool down and hydrate. If you don’t already have an ice cube tray at home you can get them for as little as £1 from Asda!
"There are countless freezable toys on the market, such as this £2.50 B&M's Ice Cream Cooling Toy which is a fun way to cool your dog down during the warm weather. These toys are also good for teething."
It comes after veterinary expert Dr Scott Miller and Barking Heads revealed the best ways to keep dogs cool when it's hot outside.
Dr Miller told The Mirror: "There are plenty of ways you can keep your pet safe from these higher temperatures and to make them feel more comfortable. One way is adding extra water to their food bowl. Soak their dry food and/or feed them wet food for additional hydration support."
Unlike humans, our dogs can't handle the heat as well, and they are susceptible to heatstroke if temperatures are high enough. Whilst they can join us in the garden every now and then, Dr Miller recommends keeping it to the cooler hours of the day, such as the morning and evening, where the direct sunlight isn't as strong.
Heatstroke is very common and can cause significant acute and chronic health issues. Older dogs or brachycephalic, otherwise known as flat faced dogs, tend to be more sensitive to extreme temperatures.
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