Keep dogs safe as temperature starts to rise
CHARITY ALERTS PET LOVERS THAT ‘20 IS PLENTY’
AS the temperatures begin ro rise, dog owners are being warned to keep their pets safe when it comes o exercise.
Dogs have a much lower threshold for heat, and Dogs Trust, the nation’s largest dog welfare charity which has a base in Loughborough, is warning owners that “20 is plenty” when it comes to exercising dogs this summer.
Exercising dogs in temperatures as mild as 21C can be problematic for dogs, particularly brachycephalic, or “flat-faced”, breeds such as English bulldogs, pugs and French bulldogs.
According to recent research from the Royal Veterinary College
(RVC) in collaboration with Nottingham Trent University, English bulldogs are 14 times more likely to suffer heatrelated illness compared to labrador retrievers.
Over a third of owners of flat-faced dogs reported that heat regulation is a problem for their pet.
While most dog lovers will be aware that extreme weather and heatwaves can be dangerous – sometimes even deadly – for dogs, many will be unaware that exercising dogs in early summer temperatures as low as 21C can cause heatstroke.
In some cases, it can prove fatal. The symptoms of heatstroke can include panting heavily, drooling excessively, appearing lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated, vomiting, diarrhoea and collapsing.
Paula Boyden, the veterinary director of Dogs Trust, said: “It’s great to see the sun shining; it feels like summer has finally arrived. But while this weather might be great for
Most know not to walk dogs in extreme weathers, but even mild temperatures can cause problems Paula Boyden
us, hot weather can cause problems.
“Most of us know not to walk or exercise dogs in extreme weathers, but even mild temperatures can cause problems, especially for those dogs with flat-faces or underlying health conditions.
“There are so many things we can do to make sure our dogs stay happy and healthy in hot weather, but it is crucial we keep a close eye on them, even if we are playing indoors. That way, hopefully we and our dogs will be able to enjoy a long hot summer.”
If you see a dog in a car in distress, the charity advises that members of the public call 999.
■ To find out more about how to keep your dog safe this summer, visit: dogstrust.org.uk/summer-weather