Heatstroke can hit on the ‘nice’ days too

Dogs Trust Manchester issues advice to keep dogs safe this summer

• With the summer sun finally here, Dogs Trust Manchester is reminding owners that dogs can overheat even on the ‘nice’ days, not just during heatwaves.

• Early signs of heatstroke in dogs are often subtle and easily missed; this summer, Dogs Trust is sharing what to look out for to keep dogs safe in the heat.

• With most heatstroke in dogs caused by exercise, Dogs Trust is urging owners to avoid walking dogs in warm weather, as even short walks can be dangerous.

 As the country expects warm summer sunshine next week, Dogs Trust Manchester is reminding owners that serious health risks for dogs come not just from heatwaves, but also from the milder ‘nice’ days.

With the early signs of heatstroke often subtle and easy to miss, Dogs Trust is sharing what to look out for and advising owners to wait until cooler parts of the day to go outside with their dogs, avoiding even short walks in the heat. Exercising dogs in warm or even mild weather can lead to severe health problems, with three-quarters of heatstroke cases triggered by physical activity.

The most common signs of heatstroke include showing signs of being lethargic or drowsy, changes to breathing, including heavy panting, which can sometimes look like smiling, or changes in breathing pattern, such as using their tummy to breathe. Dogs may also have vomiting and/or diarrhoea, drool excessively and collapse. Heatstroke can resemble signs of other illnesses, so always contact your vet if concerned.

Emily Mills, Veterinary Projects Manager at Dogs Trust, said, “It is lovely to see the summer sunshine across the country, and while this weather may be a welcome change for most, it is important to remember that warm and mild weather can bring real dangers for our dogs.

 “Dogs can’t regulate their body heat in the same way as humans, and struggle to cool themselves down effectively, which means they are much more vulnerable to increased temperatures, especially during exercise or when left in a vehicle.

 “We want to help your dog enjoy this summer every bit as much as the rest of us! The good news is that these risks are avoidable, and taking action can literally save lives. Spotting the early signs of heatstroke and cooling a dog quickly can prevent worsening, with over 95% of dogs with only mild heat-related illness surviving when treated promptly by a vet*. So, if you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, begin cooling them down immediately and contact your vet straight away.”

Dogs Trust has additionally issued the following advice to support dog owners during this period of hot weather:

• Avoid walking or doing activities with your dog during the hottest times of the day; early morning or late evening are often the best times.

• Keep to shaded areas when out on walks and make sure your dog has access to shade in the garden, too.

• Always take plenty of water with you when out with your dog, and make sure they always have access to fresh water at home.

• Tarmac can get very hot in the sun, so check it with your hand before letting your dog walk on it so they don’t burn their paws.

• Never leave your dog alone in a hot car - not even for a few minutes, or even with the windows open.

• Use a cooling mat or wrap an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel for your pet to lie on and supervise them to ensure they don’t chew it.

• Use cold treats from the fridge for added moisture or make an ice lolly from pet-friendly ingredients. Dogs Trust offers these dog-friendly recipes.

• Don’t let your pet get sunburnt - use pet-safe sun cream.     

The charity also advises “cooling first, transport second”, and recommends owners take these steps to cool their dog down before transporting them to a vet:

• Stop them from playing, walking or whatever activity they’re doing.

• Move the dog to a shaded and cool area.

• Offer them drinking water.

• Start cooling them down urgently. For young, conscious, healthy dogs, this means, if possible, immersing them in cold water (for example, in a paddling pool) and keeping their head above water. Use any available water, provided it is cooler than your dog. If immersion is not possible, continuous dousing with cold water is an alternative.

• For older dogs or dogs with health conditions, spray them with room-temperature water, avoiding their face, and combine it with air movement from a breeze, fan, or air conditioning. Place ice wrapped in a tea towel (to prevent ice burns) in their groin and armpits.

• Always closely monitor cooling and stop if you notice signs of shivering.

• Do not place a wet towel over them, as this can raise their temperature.

• While transporting to the vets, keep the air conditioning on in the car or the windows open.

Heatstroke can affect any type of dog, but certain breeds and types of dogs are at increased risk, including brachycephalic or flat-faced breeds such as English Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs, as well as older dogs, overweight dogs and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

To find out more about how to keep your dog safe this summer, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/life-with-your-dog/seasonal/warm-weather