Keeping your dog safe and happy in summer
Posted by Matt Sadler
Our top tips for keeping your dog safe and happy during warmer weather.
1. Walk at cooler times
Avoid the hottest part of the day and minimise how much time your dog spends in the sun by taking them for walks early in the morning and later in the evening.
2. Beware of hot surfaces
Remember that pavements on hot days can burn dog’s pads. If you are unable to place the back of your hand on a pavement for five seconds, then it is too hot for the dog to walk on.
3. Always remember water
Always carry water and something for the dog to drink from. Some dogs prefer to drink from their own bowl, so consider taking this with you.
4. Cool your dog down
To cool a dog down, move them to a shaded area, provide a cool damp towel for them to lay on if they choose. Offer them cool (not cold) water and you can also give them access to a shallow paddling pool.
5. Spot the signs of heatstroke
Signs of overheating or heatstroke include heavy panting, excessive drooling, red eyes, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, and staggering. Call the vet as soon as possible, but prioritise immediate first aid in cooling the dog down.
6. If your dog is showing signs of heatstroke:
• Move the dog to a shaded, cool area.
• Provide a cool damp towel for your dog to lay on if it chooses. Ensure a continuous flow of air across the dog to help increase evaporative heat loss.
• Gently pour small amounts of room temperature water onto the dog’s body (not cold water as this may cause shock) until breathing starts to settle. The aim is for the dog to gradually cool down, not begin to shiver.
• Offer the dog small amounts of room temperature water.
• Call the vet as soon as possible, but prioritise immediate first aid in cooling the dog down.
7. Find cool places
Wherever your dog is it should have access to shade, cool and clean water, and ideally a cool breeze. Areas of the house that can get particularly hot, such as conservatories, should be off limits.
8. Never leave a dog in a car
Even with the windows open and in the shade, a car can heat up quickly and become a death trap – even on a mildly warm/sunny day.
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