Temperature monitor could save lives
Victoria Davidson, creator of AnimAlarm
A newly launched temperature monitor aims to reduce the number of dogs suffering from heat-related ill health.
The portable device, AnimAlarm, sends a text message to the owner for every degree that the temperature rises above the maximum set.
Designed to ensure pets are kept at the right temperature whilst travelling with their owners, the device can also be used for long-term temperature monitoring - in kennels, for example.
Victoria Davidson, former Three Day Event rider and creator of the AnimAlarm, said: "Research shows that even in a moving vehicle with the air-conditioning on or the windows open, the temperature throughout a vehicle can vary by up to 7°C.
"It can be 27°C in the front near the air-conditioning or open window and at the same time be 34°C in the back where your dog might be!
"These variations in your car’s temperature can have severe consequences on the health of your dog, so it is important to stay informed."
AnimAlarm was launched at Crufts this year and has been awarded a Certificate of Recognition for Innovative Product of the Year 2013 by business magazine, Aspire.
It is hoped that the product will raise awareness of the dangers of temperature variations, and deter owners from leaving their pets unattended within vehicles.
Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
