Sussex dog owners given warm-weather warning
Dogs Trust Shoreham has issued a warm-weather warning as Sussex basks in spring sunshine.
The animal charity has warned pet-owners in dog-friendly Sussex that even mild temperatures can pose serious health risks.
A spokesperson said: “Many owners may not know that around 75 per cent of heatstroke cases in dogs are linked to exercise, and around two-thirds of reported heatstroke cases occur following a simple, everyday walk.
“In fact, dogs can overheat at any temperature and at any time of year, and in some cases, heatstroke can be fatal.”
Dogs Trust said signs of heatstroke in dogs included heavy panting, which can sometimes look like smiling, and changes in breathing pattern, such as a dog using its tummy to breathe. Dogs may also appear lethargic and drowsy, the charity cautioned. Other signs may include excessive drooling, uncoordinated or wobbly movements, and vomiting or diarrhoea.
The spokesperson added: “Heatstroke can resemble signs of other illnesses, and you should always contact your vet if you are concerned.
“Any breed of dog can be affected by heatstroke, however certain breeds, particularly brachycephalic or ‘flat-faced’ dogs such as pugs, French bulldogs, and English bulldogs, are at a significantly higher risk due to their compromised ability to regulate body temperature and narrow airways.
“Older dogs, overweight dogs, dogs with thick coats, and dogs with underlying health conditions are also at higher risk.
“Dogs Trust advises owners who suspect their dogs may be experiencing heatstroke to act immediately to prevent their dog’s condition from getting worse. If your dog has collapsed or is struggling to breathe, call your nearest vet immediately.”
The charity also advises ‘cooling first, transport second’, and recommends owners take the following steps to cool their dog down before transporting them to a vet:-
Stop them from playing, walking or whatever activity they’re doing.
Move the dog to a shaded and cool area.
Offer them drinking water.
Start cooling them down urgently. For young, conscious, healthy dogs, this means, if possible, immersing them in cold water – for example, in a paddling pool – keeping their head above water. Use any available water, provided it is cooler than your dog. If immersion is not possible, continuous dousing with cold water is an alternative.
For older dogs or dogs with health conditions, spray them with room-temperature water, avoiding their face, and combine it with air movement from a breeze, fan, or air conditioning. Place ice wrapped in a tea towel – to prevent ice burns – in their groin and armpits.
Always closely monitor cooling and stop if you notice signs of shivering.
Do not place a wet towel over them, as this can raise their temperature.
While transporting to the vets, keep the air conditioning on in the car or the windows open.
Charlie Dobson, senior veterinary surgeon at Dogs Trust, said: “For many of us across the country, the arrival of warmer weather is a welcome change, but it is important to remember that this weather can bring real dangers for our dogs.
“Even the springtime sunshine expected over the next few weeks can cause serious issues, especially for flat-faced breeds or dogs with underlying health conditions.
“The best thing we can do for our pets is to avoid walking them during the hottest parts of the day, provide plenty of fresh water and shade, and always monitor them closely for early symptoms of heatstroke, even during indoor play when it's warm outside.
“If you notice your dog is overheating, cooling first aid before transporting them to the vet can be lifesaving.
“Warmer weather can be wonderful for us and our four-legged friends, as long as we stay aware and take the right care to keep everyone safe.”
Dogs Trust also urged owners never to leave dogs alone in cars, as even just a few minutes in a hot car can prove fatal. The spokesperson said: “On a 22-degree Celsius day, the temperature inside a car could rise by 11 degrees in just ten minutes, and as dogs cannot cool down the same way as humans, the heat can quickly become dangerous for them.
“If you see a dog in a car in distress, the charity advises that members of the public call 999. For tips on keeping your dog safe in warm weather, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/hotweather”