We’re approaching summer once again and not a moment too soon after what seems like far too long of wet, dreary, grey and very cold! The BBC Weather is great for weather forecast but if you’re thinking of having a day out in the sun and fancy taking your dogs too, or simply thinking of leaving them at home, the RSPCA have some great advice.
I attended three events last year when we had scorching summer heat where organisers had to remind people that their dogs are in the car, distressed, while the owners enjoyed the outside temperatures of 24+ degrees… imagine the temperature inside a metal and glass box… Only a couple of years ago two German Shepherds died when left in a car.
There’s some great advice available on my Free Training Tips page where you can download this HotCarsHotDogs. One of my behaviour students, Katherine who is also a qualified veterinary nurse has this sound advice:
Heatstroke occurs when the animal’s body system cannot cool itself down sufficiently. Moderate heatstroke, if treated, quickly can be resolved within a couple of hours, unlike severe heat stroke that can be fatal.
Here are a few signs to look out for:
• Excessive panting
• Brick red tongue
• Bright red or pale gums
• Depression
• Excessive thick saliva
• Weakness
• Vomiting and diarrhoea
• Collapse
This is a common condition in the warm weather which we see all too often in veterinary practice; here are just a few suggestions to keep your pet safe:
• Do not leave your dog in a parked car even if it is in the shade and the windows are open. The temperature in a parked car can reach over 140 degrees in a very small amount of time.
• Do not exercise your dog midday or take your dog jogging exercise can cause over heating as dogs can sweat to cool down like we do.
• Ensure your dog always has access to fresh water and if they are outside that they have shade.
Also remember to put sun block on dogs that are white or that have pink skin to prevent them burning.
Be a responsible owner and look after your pet.
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Posted in Jez's advice on anything dog, The National Responsible Dog Owners Campaign by admin
My national Responsible Dog Owners Campaign is featured in October’s issue of Dogs Monthly magazine, the UK’s fastest-growing canine magazine.
