With the (rare!) warm weather we get at this time of year, at Clonskeagh Vets we see a lot of cases of heat stroke during the summer months. Many of these are very serious and can end in tragedy. despite being easily avoidable if proper precautions are taken.
Here are our top tips on how to keep dogs cool in the heat.
Circulate cool air
Open the windows, turn on a fan or keep the air conditioning at a low temperature. Your dog will appreciate having a cool place to relax indoors if it’s scorching outside.
Keep dogs out of conservatories and greenhouses
These areas can get dangerously hot even when it may only feel mild outside. Bear in mind that there are no cooling breezes inside these sun traps and they magnify the heat.
White ears & noses
Dogs with white ears and noses can be susceptible to sunburn, so call us and we can advise a suitable brand of factor 50.
NEVER leave dogs in a parked car
Temperatures inside cars can reach astronomical levels on a warm summer’s day within 5-10 minutes. Every year dogs die in parked cars – essentially cooking their organs internally
Constant fresh water
Leave a bowl of water out for your dog to drink from to prevent dehydration.
Try giving your dog cool snacks
If you are at home or out in the garden try giving your dog a few ice cubes to lick or freeze one of his favourite chew toys.
Exercise
Walk or exercise your dog in the early morning or late evening when it’s coolest.
Hot ground
Check that the pavement isn’t too hot for your dog’s paws. It’s worth checking the tarmac before you head out for a walk. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. If that is the case stick to grass.
Ensure there’s a shaded spot
If there are no naturally occurring shaded spots in your garden, or even in your house, create one by placing some cloth or cardboard over an area to keep the sun out.
Time for a paddle
Put out a paddling pool but don’t spray them with a hose if they think it’s a game and gulp water – this can be dangerous!
Travelling
Avoid long car journeys, even with air conditioning.
By Dr. Steve Hallahan MVB PgCertDent MRCVS @drstevethevet@gmail.com
Need more info?
Looking for further help and advice? Please feel free to contact us with any queries.
