Summer’s long sunny days and higher temperatures can be great for humans- but not so good for dogs.
Our furry friends can’t cool themselves down by sweating so they release heat through their paws and by panting.
However, this cooling system is not the most efficient on hot days so overheating can easily happen.
MORE: Man whose dogs died in hot car appears in campaign video to prevent other deaths
The signs of heat exposure and dehydration in dogs are:
• Excessive panting or salivating/dry mouth and gums
• Bloodshot or sunken eyes
• Lethargy or unsteadiness
• Skin lacking elasticity
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
If your dog shows any of these signs, contact your vet immediately.
Battersea Dogs and Cats Home and Team Otis UK’s top tips for keeping you canine cool are:
• Don’t leave a dog unattended in any confined space - including conservatories or caravans.
• Take them for a walk early morning or later in the day. The hottest time of the day is around 3pm so avoid taking the dog out during this time and don’t exercise them too vigorously.
MORE: VIDEO: Boxing champion David Haye presents the weather - for dogs
• Keep them hydrated! Take a supply of cold fresh water and a portable bowl with you when out and about. Stop regularly so they can take in water.
• Avoid taking your dog on a walk along hot surfaces like tarmac. Dogs absorb and release heat through their paws – they will not be able to do this sufficiently if they’re already on a hot surface, opt for grassy walks instead.
• Find suitable shaded areas when outdoors.
MORE: 7 of the lamest excuses given for dogs left in hot cars - and harrowing account of what can happen
• Keep them cool – one inventive way to do this is to spray cool (not ice cold) water on your dog including the paws and stomach. A wet towel in the shade to lay on can also do the trick or even a paddling pool.
• Sun burn can occur in dogs too - apply dog-friendly UV protection sun cream to exposed or sensitive areas of the skin such as the nose or back.
MORE: 8 things dogs should never eat or be fed
• Ice lollies for dogs or anything that has a high water content is always a great way to keep dogs cool. Ice lollies can be filled with dog-friendly ingredients such as frozen broth or frozen yoghurt.
• Frequent brushing keeps the undercoat maintained which is part of the dog’s natural cooling system.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here