Keeping things cool

With warmer weather and longer days upon us, what can start out as a fun day in the sunshine can have tragic consequences for dogs left inside cars. PDSA vet nurse Nina Downing says: “Leaving a dog in a car on a warm day, even in a shaded location with the windows open, can create a potentially fatal situation. Parked cars can reach very high temperatures in minutes which will cause a dog’s body temperature to rise quickly, leading to heatstroke. Heatstroke can cause seizures, organ failure, and death.

“If you see a dog that has been left on their own in a car on a hot day, assess the situation first before acting. If the dog is panting heavily, appears lethargic or drowsy, is drooling excessively or is unresponsive, they could be showing signs of heatstroke.

“Many people’s first response in this situation may be to contact an animal welfare organisation, but it’s best to call 999 – heatstroke is a life-threatening situation.

“If the dog isn’t displaying any obvious signs of heatstroke, try to establish how long they may have been in the car. A ‘pay and display’ ticket could give a clue. Note the car’s registration, and if you’re at a supermarket or public venue ask the staff to make an announcement to alert the owner.

“If you can get the dog out of the car, start to cool it down immediately while someone contacts a local vet. They may advise taking the dog straight to them, but make sure they’re being cooled on the way. Move the dog to a cool area and pour small amounts of room temperature water onto their body.

“Offer the dog small amounts of cool water, but do not force them to drink. Continue to pour small amounts of water onto their body, until their breathing begins to settle or you arrive at the vet.”