With summer temperatures once again soaring this week, the Met Office has a Amber Extreme Heat warning in place for parts of the country to ensure that Brits are prepared for the hot weather .
But vets have urged dog owners not to forget about the health of their pets during the heat. While this can include avoiding taking them on walks at the hottest parts of the day, providing cooling mats and ensuring they have plenty of water, vets have warned of a hidden danger that many pet households may not be aware of.
If you’re letting your dog out into the garden and have artificial grass, this has the potential to cause your pooch some painful injuries in the scorching weather, The Mirror reports . Dr Samantha Webster, a vet at Joji Pet Care , explained how it can pose a similar risk to taking your dog out on a walk at the height of a heatwave.
READ MORE: Dogs in the summer: How hot is too hot, keeping your pet cool and spotting signs of heatstroke
Dr Webster said: "One very common danger for cats and dogs alike in summer is hot surfaces, which can quickly result in sore and burnt paws. To test the temperature of the surface they are likely to walk on, try holding the back of your hand against it for at least seven seconds - if it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your furry companions.
"Whilst it won't get as hot as tarmac or paving slabs, artificial grass can also pose a risk to your pet's paws in summer," the vet added. "It is really important to note that if you have artificial grass in your garden, this will heat up very quickly if under direct sunlight and so should be treated with the same caution as with pavement."
The pet care expert advised those whose gardens have no natural grass, which stays much cooler in the sun, to ensure they create places where their dog can lie in the shade or to put down a damp towel to give them a place to cool off. She also urged dog owners not to leave their four-legged friends unattended when outside in the sunshine.
"When the heat of the day has passed and temperatures drop significantly, you can safely allow them to wander freely outside - but again, do the seven-second temperature check if unsure," Dr Webster said.
Some dog breeds are considered more at risk from deadly heatstroke, particularly flat-faced breeds such as pugs and French bulldogs, with temperatures of 28C or above considered life-threatening for all dogs. Signs that your dog may be suffering from heatstroke include bright red gums, excessive panting, drooling, shaking and vomiting, explained Animal Friends Pet Insurance .
Owners suspecting that their dog could have heatstroke should move their dog out of the heat and contact their vet immediately. Dr Webster advised placing cool wet towels over their body and offering them water.
"But don’t allow them to drink too quickly as there is a risk they may inhale it," the vet warned. "The most important thing to remember is to never give ice to a dog suffering from sunstroke, as this can cause their system to go into shock."
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