Dogs Trust issues heatwave advice
The charity advises any owner worried that their dog has heatstroke to start cooling them and to call their vet straight away.
In response to the recent rise in temperatures, Dogs Trust has issued advice to dog owners about how to keep dogs safe in hot weather.
The charity has warned that leaving dogs alone in a car during hot weather for even just a few minutes could be fatal.
Paula Boyden, veterinary director of Dogs Trust, explained: “Dogs can’t regulate their body heat in the same way as humans, so extra care needs to be taken, especially when exercising or travelling in the car.
“In this weather, there is no safe amount of time to leave your dog alone in the car, even if you leave the window open.”
If anyone sees a dog in a car in distress, Dogs Trust recommends calling 999.
The charity has also reminded owners to avoid walking dogs or doing other activities during the hottest part of the day, to take plenty of water when out with a dog, to use pet-safe sun cream, and to check the temperature of tarmac by hand before letting a dog walk on it.
To help keep a dog cool, the charity recommends using a cooling mat, wrapping an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel for a dog to lie on, and to give them cold treats.
Dr Boyden added: “The good news is that steps can be taken to prevent our dogs from suffering such as only walking dogs in the coolest parts of the day, reducing their exercise, ensuring dogs have access to somewhere cool and shady to lay down and making sure they always have access to fresh water.
“And of course, never leave your dog alone in a hot car, not even for a short amount of time.
“If you do suspect your dog has heatstroke, start cooling them and call your vet immediately as it is vital they receive the care they need as soon as possible.”
The symptoms of heatstroke include heavy panting, excessive drooling, appearing lethargic, drowsy or unco-ordinated, vomiting, diarrhoea, and collapsing.
More information on how to keep a dog safe in warm weather can be found on the Dogs Trust website.
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Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.
