Keep hot dogs cool

The Kennel Club has issued a new warning to dog owners to protect their pets during the heatwave.

It includes not walking during the hottest parts of the day and never leaving them alone in a car.

The breed society say pets should not be left in vehicles, even with all the windows down.

And that shade and water is always available to panting pets.

Nick Sutton, the KC health expert, said: “It’s getting warmer and whilst we might be enjoying the sunshine, it’s important for owners to remember that dogs aren’t as good at dealing with hot weather as we are.

“When they’re hot, dogs mostly cool down by panting, but sometimes this just isn’t enough. As their temperature rises, it can make them very unwell and this can be fatal.”

Three quarters of heatstroke victims get it as a result of exercise, particularly fat dogs and flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs and Pugs.

Tips include ditching a collar for a harness or even put up a paddling pool to let them cool in the garden and adding ice cubes to water bowls.

Nick added: “Knowing the signs of heatstroke and getting your dog to the vets early if they are affected can drastically improve their chance of survival.“

Owners should watch out for heavy panting, tiredness or an unwillingness to move as well as dribbling, sickness and signs of upset stomach.”

The Kennel Club’s post-lockdown ‘Paw by Paw Guide’also provides practical advice for dog owners.