Hot tips for keeping cool
- Make sure they always have fresh water available – add ice cubes to pet bowls to keep cool.
- Exercise your pet early morning or late evening to avoid peak temperatures.
- Provide plenty of access to shade – use umbrellas or sun tents at the beach
- Dogs may enjoy splashing in a paddling pool
- Do apply an animal or child-safe sunscreen to pale dogs’ noses and ears when in the sun
Avoid
- Never leave your pet in a parked car under any circumstances – conservatories and caravans can also reach dangerous temperatures quickly on hot days
- Walking your dog on hot pavements or hot sand as paw pads can burn
- Exposing your pet to direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time
Some breeds are higher risk of heatstroke
- Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs and Boxers
- Older dogs
- Obese dogs
Signs of heat stroke
- Temperature of 40°C plus
- Excessive panting
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Weakness
- Increased heart rate
- Seizures