Keeping your dog safe in hot weather

Dogs barely sweat and lose heat mainly by panting. On hot days, that can quickly fall short. Heatstroke is an emergency, but a few simple precautions usually prevent it.

Which dogs are most at risk?

• Flat-faced breeds, such as the French bulldog, pug, English bulldog and boxer.
• Puppies, older dogs and overweight dogs.
• Dogs with a heart or breathing condition.
• Dogs with a thick, dark coat.
• Very active dogs who won't stop running or playing on their own.

Tips for hot days

• Walk early in the morning and late in the evening, and keep walks short.
• Do the hand test: hold the back of your hand on the tarmac or pavement for five seconds. Too hot for your hand is too hot for paws.
• Always provide fresh water and a shady spot, indoors and out.
• Never leave your dog in a car, not even briefly and not with a window open. The temperature inside a car becomes dangerous within minutes.
• A cooling mat, a damp towel to lie on or a paddling pool in the shade all help your dog cool down.
• Don't shave a double coat: it also protects against heat and sun. Do have a groomer brush out the dead undercoat.

Signs of overheating

Watch for heavy panting that does not stop, lots of drooling, bright red or very pale gums, lethargy, stumbling, vomiting or diarrhoea. In serious cases a dog may collapse.

What to do if your dog overheats

Move your dog out of the heat to a cool spot straight away. Start cooling immediately: pour cool water over their body, or use wet towels that you keep replacing, with a fan or open window nearby. Don't use ice-cold water. Offer small sips of water, but don't force your dog to drink. At the same time, call your vet and go there, even if your dog seems better: heatstroke can cause internal damage you can't see straight away.

Need a vet?

If your dog is a flat-faced breed or has a health condition, talk to your vet before summer about what to watch for. On Petovia you can find vets near you and book an appointment online.