Tell-tale sign your dog is suffering from heatstroke
Reports say we could due a heatwave next week, so it's important we all know how to take good care of our beloved pooches.
Over the next few days, parts of the UK are set to see temperatures of at least 20 degrees.
Lead weather presenter at the BBC, Simon King, tweeted: "Is a #heatwave on the way? Maybe.
"Remember there's a criteria that needs to be met depending on where you live, but with temperatures up to the mid to high 20's early next week...it'll be close to the heatwave threshold for some."
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So just in case we are hit with soaring temperatures, here's how best to look after your dog.
In 2022, a spokesperson from Kennel Store explained: "Heatstroke is a serious illness in which a dog begins to overheat and isn't able to effectively lower its temperature."
The normal body temperature of a dog is approximately 38.6°C. If they begin to overheat, it's incredibly serious.
Heatstroke can lead to dogs falling victim to seizures, organ failure or even death when left without treatment.
So while it can be tempting to take your dog out for a walk in the sun, it's probably best to avoid.
Potential triggers can include extended time out in hot weather, overheating during exercise, and being trapped inside a hot car.
The Kennel Store notes that symptoms may include:
- Panting
- Weakness
- Collapsing
- Confusion
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
It's also been noted that some warning signs to look out for are bright red gums, drooling, foaming at the mouth and shaking.
And if you're a pug lover, then you should take extra care.
Flat-faced dogs are at even higher risk of suffering heatstroke because they struggle to cool themselves down due to them working harder to breathe.
Other high risk dogs include overweight dogs, young dogs and giant-breeds - heavier than 45kg - and elderly dogs.
So, here's what to do if you fear that your dog is experiencing heatstroke.
Act quickly
Don't spend too much time worrying, as time is of the essence.
Keep your dog calm and still - ultimately, frantic movements may cause them to panic further.
Move your dog indoors
Or opt for a shaded area if you're unable to go inside.
Make sure you give them cold water - but avoid ice cold as the shock may make them worse.
Help them cool down
Place your dog on top of a wet towel and pat their head, feet, ears and fur with cool water.
Then you can pour the cool water on their bodies.
See a vet
Of course, if your dog is in distress, it's imperative to see a professional.
Take them as soon as possible to the vet - they'll make attempts to lower your dog's temperature with methods such as fans and a fluid drip.
Kennel Store added: “If your dog receives the appropriate treatment promptly, they will very likely make a full recovery.
“If, however, they become seriously unwell or they don't receive the medical treatment required or it is delayed, they are at risk of suffering damage to their organs or even death.
“It's important to contact the vet as soon as your dog starts showing symptoms of heatstroke. The sooner treatment is administered, the higher chance your dog will make a better recovery.”
Don't walk them
Opt for morning or evening walks in order to avoid peak sun. It's helpful if your dog always has access to shade and cold water.
You should use your hands on the pavement - place it there for at least seven seconds - to see if it feels too hot for your dog to walk on.
Note that tarmac, sand and artificial grass can become especially hot, and it's easy not to spot because your shoes protect your feet.
Don't leave your dog in the car
As a dog owner, you should never leave your dog in a hot car.
Ultimately, your dog could lose its life due to extreme overheating and dehydration.
And if your dog has a long coat, you should also consider getting it clipped during the summer months.
Kya Buller