Keeping canines cool this summer
As dog owners embrace the arrival of warmer summer weather, walks are likely to become more enjoyable for all.
However, some dogs struggle with the heat and on very hot days all owners need to watch out for signs of heatstroke.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke can be very serious and lead to organ failure if not treated quickly. Sadly, one in seven dogs taken to the vet with heatstroke will die. Some breeds of dog – such as those with flat faces or especially thick coats – are more at risk than others, as are the very old and very young.
It is important you familiarise yourself with the signs of heatstroke so you can take swift action:
- Excessive panting
- Excessive drooling
- Foaming at the mouth
- Glazed eyes
- Bright red gums
- Increased heart rate
- Confusion or disorientation
- Shaking or wobbling
- Collapse or seizure
Gardens
On a hot day your dog should have access to plenty of shaded areas and fresh water to drink in the garden. On a very hot day, it may be necessary to restrict the amount of time your dog spends outside, especially if there is no shade. If you decide it is too hot to walk your dog there are plenty of things you can do in the garden to keep them cool and amused. If they love water, you could fill a paddling pool for them to splash about in or hide treats for them to sniff out in the shade. You could also spread your dog’s wet food or a treat like natural yogurt onto our summer lick mat, available online and in selected stores, and freeze for a cool, long-lasting treat.
Grooming
Regular brushing will help to cool your dog down by removing any dead hair caught in the coat and untangling any mats that can trap heat. If you have a long or double-coated breed they would benefit from a visit to a professional groomer for a clip or strip.
Sun cream
Dogs can suffer from sunburn, especially those with lightly coloured or thin coats. Noses and the tips of ears are at particular risk of burning in the sun, but you can buy sun cream specially formulated to protect canine skin.
Cars
The simple rule to follow here is to never leave a dog in a car on a warm day. Even if your car is parked in the shade with the windows open and you leave a bowl of water it is not safe. When it’s 22°C outside, the temperature inside a car can quickly reach 47°C, which can be fatal. Tragically there have been too many heart-breaking incidents of dogs dying in cars their owners didn’t realise were too hot. If you see a dog in distress in a hot car, you should call 999 immediately.
Even when you are travelling, the inside of a car can get very hot. You might have air-con but have you checked this reaches the boot of the car? Schedule plenty of rest stops on along journey so you can check your pet is not getting too hot and so they can have a drink. It is sensible to avoid travelling during the hottest parts of the day and to use sunshades on the windows to help reflect the sun’s rays.
With a little thought and planning, you and your pet can enjoy the dog days of summer in safety.
Check out our new range of canine cooling products available in selected stores and online, including cool mats, ice bowls,hydrating toys, sprinkler mats, and more.
For more information on keeping your canines happy this summer speak with your local in-store Registered Animal Medicines Advisor
