The UK is experiencing record high temperatures, posing risks to pets. The RSPCA warns that exercise is a common cause of heatstroke in dogs and advises adjusting routines accordingly.
Key points
The UK has seen record high temperatures recently.
Dogs can also suffer from heat-related issues.
Exercise is a common trigger for heatstroke in dogs.
No specific safe temperature exists for dog walks.
The UK has seen record day and night temperatures in recent days.
It's not just humans who can feel uncomfortable in the heat.
How can you make sure your pets are cool and safe during hot weather?
It says there is no "safe" temperature for walks, as it depends on your dog's breed, age, health and temperament.
The charity also recommends the pavement test: if you can't comfortably hold your hand on the ground for five seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws.
If you do walk your dog, go out in the early morning or late evening, look for shaded areas and walk on grass where possible.
The charity says these signs could mean your dog is suffering in the heat:
limping or refusing to walk
licking or chewing at their feet
their foot pads are darker in colour or damaged
they have visible blisters or redness
You should also avoid running or cycling with your dog when it is hot.
If your dog is getting less exercise than usual, the RSPCA suggests keeping them engaged at home with puzzle toys or training games.
This includes those with underlying health conditions or thick coats which can trap heat. Puppies or older dogs may also struggle to regulate their temperature.
Dogs pant to keep themselves cool, but the shorter snouts of certain flat-faced breeds like bulldogs and pugs make this difficult. This means they are at particular risk from overheating.
If you see these signs, first try to cool your dog down as quickly as possible.
Move them to a shaded area and slowly pour any available water that's cooler than the dog's temperature over their body, avoiding their head in case they are struggling to breathe.
Q&A
What are the signs of heatstroke in dogs?
Signs of heatstroke in dogs include excessive panting, drooling, weakness, and confusion.
How can I keep my dog cool during hot weather?
To keep your dog cool, provide plenty of water, avoid exercise during peak heat, and create a shaded area for them.
What temperature is too hot for dogs to walk?
There is no specific safe temperature for dog walks; it varies based on the dog's breed, age, health, and temperament.
What should I do if my dog shows signs of heatstroke?
If your dog shows signs of heatstroke, move them to a cooler area, provide water, and seek veterinary assistance immediately.
Provide plenty of clean water - you can add ice cubes to their water bowl. Pets may also enjoy frozen edible snacks.
Put wet or damp towels underneath their body - but don't place them directly on top.
Several pet cooling mats and jackets are available, but make sure you follow the instructions. Products that need to be kept constantly wet can actually make your pet hotter if they dry out.
Some animals may enjoy playing with frozen toys, or cooling off in a paddling pool – although you should always supervise pets around water.
Keeping dogs and other furry animals like cats well-groomed prevents the build-up of matted fur, which can make it harder for them to stay cool.
Make sure any indoor animal cages or fish tanks are not in direct sunlight.
Never leave a pet in a locked car, caravan or other vehicle for any length of time, as temperatures can rise quickly to dangerous levels - which can be fatal.
Similarly, don't leave animals shut inside conservatories, sheds or greenhouses.
You may also want to leave out extra water in your garden for birds, foxes and other wildlife creatures.
Dogs and cats can get sunburnt - especially if they are light-coloured or have thin patches of fur. Ears, noses, eyelids and bellies are also vulnerable.
Sunburn can be painful for pets, and in extreme cases can lead to skin cancer.
Some active ingredients in human sun cream are toxic to pets so vets recommend using a pet-safe waterproof sunscreen, with an SPF rating of 30 or higher. Some companies sell sunscreen with a bitter taste to stop animals licking it off.
Once you know the sunscreen is safe, you can gently apply a thin layer of sunscreen on the exposed white and light patches of skin, plus their nose and ears.
The PDSA warns pet owners to look out for the following symptoms of sunburn:
blisters
crusting
itching
redness
The Dogs Trust advises owners to first check whether the beach they want to visit allows dogs.
