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With news of a drought being declared in the UK, it's worth thinking about how to best take care of your dogs in this hot weather. 

The main thing to be aware of is heatstroke - where a dog's normal ways of controlling their temperature are overwhelmed, with their body temperature rising above 40 degrees Centigrade (104 Fahrenheit). 

 

Unlike us humans, dogs don't sweat through their skin - they rely on panting and releasing heat through their paw pads and nose to regulate their body temperature and keep cool. If they are exercising (even a gentle walk) or playing in the heat, are lying in a warm spot or they are trapped somewhere hot, some dogs will not be able to bring their temperature into a normal range of 38-39 degrees Centigrade (100.4-102.2 Fahrenheit) and so will suffer from heatstroke. 

 

Heatstroke kills, so the rule is the earlier you start treating your dog, the better the outcome will be.

 

Symptoms of heatstroke

If you see any of these symptoms on a hot day, take action right away:

• excessively panting, drooling or foaming at the mouth
• bright red gums or tacky saliva
• showing weakness or confusion
• seizing or shaking
• vomiting or diarrhoea
• collapsed on the floor 

 

Treatment for heatstroke

For mild heatstroke (panting, breathing difficulties, lethargy) cool your dog down by moving them somewhere in the shade to rest, offering them a cool drink, and possibly cooling them with a wet towel - make sure you get to cool their paw pads too.

 

For moderate heatstroke (drooling, foaming, vomiting, diarrhoea, gum colour changes, shaking, weakness and collapse) call the vet. Cool your dog down by moving them somewhere in the shade to rest, offering them a cool drink, creating a breeze and slowly pouring cold water over their body. When it is safe to do so, travel to the vets.

 

For severe heatstroke (confusion, seizures, unconsciousness, vomiting / diarrhoea with blood) get them to the vets as fast as possible. In the meantime, cool them with water and air conditioning (if your car has that option).

 

Avoiding heatstroke

With heatstroke, prevention is far better than cure. Here are things you can do to prevent your dog suffering:

 

NEVER leave your dog in a car on a warm day: Not even for a few minutes, with the windows open, or in the shade.

 

Make sure your dog has shade and water: They need access to a cool surface (not carpet). Consider a cooling mat or damp towel.

 

Don't rely on a fan because they are less effective for dogs.

 

Walk your dog away from the heat: Avoid walking your dog in the hottest part of the day, instead take them out in the early morning/evening when it’s cool. Consider a walk in the woods rather than a field with no shade. Take water with you. Consider avoiding exercise on hot days completely if your dog is not young and fit.

 

Encourage your dog to get wet: Encourage your dog to play in water on hot days, but never force them into water if they’re scared. Wiping them down with a damp towel may be an alternative. 

 

Never walk your dog on a hot surface: If you can comfortably touch it with the palm of your hand for 7 seconds it’s okay – sand, artificial grass and tarmac get especially hot. Avoid them if possible.

 

Give your dog a trim: Especially in the warmer months if they have a heavy coat. Brushing your dog’s fur can also help.

 

Make dog lollies: Using frozen water or natural yoghurt (check there are no sweeteners), add dog treats, or fresh fruits. Let them defrost slightly before feeding to your pets. My dogs are quite fond of ice on its own.

 

Be extra careful with flat-faced breeds: Brachycephalic (flat faced) dog breeds, such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston terriers, Chow chows, Dog de Bordeaux, Pekingese, Shih Tzu, Boxers and King Charles Cavalier spaniels all struggle to loose heat through their nose, unlike non-brachycephalic breeds, which puts them at a far higher risk of heatstroke even when the temperature is lower.

 

Have a great summer.