Dog owners issued urgent warning as most people don’t know how to spot heat stroke
As the UK is due to experience another heatwave in just a few days, dog owners are being urged to keep their pets safe. According to Canine Cottages studies, one in six pet owners do not know how to spot signs of heat stroke in dogs.
Canine Behaviourist and resident dog expert, Emma Scales-Theobald, has shared usual tips on how to keep your dog cool throughout this upcoming heatwave.
It’s crucial to be vigilant for signs of heatstroke in your dog, especially during walks.
Dr Emma pointed out some of the key symptoms of heat stroke in dogs which include lethargy, lack of coordination, purple gums, excessive panting, excessive amounts of drool, flushed, red skin, vomiting, and diarrhoea.
She starts off by stating: “If you think your dog has heat stroke, attempt to cool them with room temperature/cool water – not ice-cold water – focusing on their belly. It’s important to seek veterinary attention right away.”
However, what are the steps to prevent your furry friend from suffering from the exhausting heat?
Grooming your dog hair with caution
Dr Emma reveals that cutting your dog’s coat can actually make them hotter and not cooler. She shared: “Dog breeds with a thick double coat, such as Siberian Huskies and Golden Retrievers, can find the hot weather more uncomfortable than short-haired breeds. However, shaving their thick coats will make them hotter, not cooler.”
Instead, you should groom your dogs by regularly brushing them during the summer months to ensure there is no excess hair. She added: “[This] will also help prevent the sun’s rays from reaching and burning your dog’s sensitive skin. If you do decide to clip your dog’s fur for summer, try to leave at least a 1cm in length for some protection.”
Know when to walk and when to rest
When the sun’s out, it’s advised to steer clear of walking your dog between 11am and 3pm; instead, go on an early morning or late evening stroll as these are the coolest times of the day.
However, with temperatures due to hit over 34C, dog owners are advised to keep to a gentle walk in their garden so their dog doesn’t get too hot or to avoid walking completely.
Brachycephalic dog breeds, like pugs and English bulldogs, suffer from their flat face, making it difficult for them to breathe, it is better to keep them indoors.
Shade and hydrate
Ensure your furry friend has access to shaded areas during sunny days, particularly in the midday heat. Dr Emma provides advice on which dogs need extra care in hot weather and how to chill out in the shade.
She shared: “Extra care should be taken for elderly dogs, puppies (under six months old), overweight dogs, large breed dogs, and brachycephalic (flat-faced) dogs who struggle to pant. On a sunny walk, if your dog is excessively panting, slowing down and wanting to drink more than usual, it’s best to find some shade and let them cool down.”
If you spot any signs of heat stroke, the expert left tips on methods to encourage your dog to cool off in the shade such as giving them a cool, refreshing treat like a frozen carrot, dog-friendly ice cream, ice cubes, or a dog-friendly smoothie.
Provide a cooling mat with puzzle toys to keep them calm and mentally stimulated in the shade. Lastly, simply sit with them in the shade so they won’t feel like they’re missing out on the fun.
If you want more tips on how to look after your dog in summer, visit, https://www.caninecottages.co.
