With the UK temperatures set to soar in August, Brits are being given advice on how to keep their dogs cool and safe in a heatwave.
NetVoucherCodes.co.uk have put together ways to keep pets safe and cool as the country heats up.
Many pets struggle in severe heat. It can also be dangerous and cause heatstroke for dogs who may be older, really young or overweight.
In the warm weather, it is important to keep pets safe by keeping them cool and hydrated.
A spokesperson from NetVoucherCodes.co.uk said: “Not only can high temperatures be uncomfortable for pets, but it can also be pretty dangerous.
“While we may enjoy the sun, our pets are at high risk of overheating and suffering from heatstroke, so we need to do everything we can to protect them.
“Most importantly we should be keeping our pets indoors, away from the sun and hydrated.
“There are other ways to protect our furry friends like avoiding walks and being aware of the symptoms of overheating, that’s why we’ve put together this list so we can keep our pets as safe as possible.”
Here are 6 ways to keep dogs cool and safe in a heatwave:
1. Keep Them Hydrated
Dehydration in dogs is very common so it’s important that you’re giving your pup water regularly in the heat.
2. Keep Them Indoors And Avoid Walks
Ideally, you should be keeping your pets indoors when temperatures are high, this means you shouldn’t be taking them out for walks either as it can severely tire them out and dehydrate them. Any temperature above 23 degrees isn’t really suitable for your dog to do vigorous exercise in.
3. Keep Them Cool
As well as giving dogs water regularly, another way to cool them down is to lay out a damp towel for them to lay on. Alternatively, create your dog a cooling corner and let them sit in the shade.
4. NEVER Keep Dogs In The Car
You shouldn’t really be taking your dog out in high temperatures and you certainly should never leave them in the car. Even if you leave the windows open, it is not safe for dogs to be kept in cars in this climate.
To learn more about the dangers of cars in hot weather, read here.
5. Understand The Symptoms Of Heatstroke
Old, young and overweight dogs are more prone to heatstroke as well as those with flat faces and thick coats. If you can recognise the symptoms of heatstroke, you can know when your dog may need help.
Symptoms include panting, excessive drooling, vomiting, and collapsing.
6. Understand How To Help Your Dog In A Heatstroke
If your dog displays any of the symptoms of heatstroke, you should aim to lower their body temperature. Try putting cool (not cold) water on them, placing wet towels over your pet, put them near the breeze of a fan and move them inside or to a cool part of the house
Once your dog is cool you should take them to the vet immediately.
