Feeling the heat? Don’t forget to protect your pet, warn vets
02 July 2018
Dogs may particularly struggle to stay cool
As temperatures
continue to soar, pet owners are being warned to take extra care of their pets
in the record-breaking UK heatwave.
Dogs may
particularly struggle to stay cool in these high temperatures and humid
conditions since, unlike humans, they are unable to cool down quickly through
sweating, rendering them vulnerable to overheating. Brachycephalic (flat-faced)
breeds such as English or French bulldogs and pugs are even more at risk, as
their short noses can make breathing properly difficult, and therefore cooling
down much harder.
Some breeds of
cats and dogs, particularly those with lighter-coloured or finer fur, may
benefit from appropriate sun cream in hot weather, especially on the ears which
are prone to sunburn. Consult with your local vet to ensure you are
providing the right protection in the right place.
Rabbits should
also be protected as they are often in a hutch or run that may become exposed
to direct sunlight as the sun moves round through the day. Rabbits can also be
affected by fly strike at this time of year so daily inspection around their
back end and under their tail is essential. Seek veterinary advice immediately
if your rabbit is affected. Likewise take care to ensure birds in cages or
aviaries are not exposed to direct sun and have adequate shade.
British
Veterinary Association President John Fishwick said:
“Many of us are
struggling with the ongoing high temperatures but it’s important not to forget
that many pets can suffer too. We’re advising owners to take some simple steps
to ensure that their much-loved pets also stay happy and healthy this summer.
Even relatively lower temperatures at the start and end of the day can prove
uncomfortable for animals, especially if they are kept in direct sunlight
without any shade.
“Vets know that
dogs in particular won’t stop enjoying themselves and exercising because it is
hot, so it’s up to owners to do all they can to prevent overheating happening –
and be able to recognise the signs and act quickly if it does.
“If you’re
concerned about your pet in the hot weather, we’d recommend contacting your
local vet immediately.”
With more
scorching temperatures forecast across the UK, BVA and British Small Animal
Veterinary Association (BSAVA) are highlighting eight simple steps to help keep
dogs and other pets safe as the temperature rises:
- Make sure
pets always have adequate fresh water to drink.
- Provide
adequate ventilation at all times.
- Avoid
exercising dogs in the heat of the day: especially older dogs,
brachycephalic (flat faced) breeds or dogs that you know have heart or
lung problems.
- Provide
shade from the sun, especially during the hottest part of the day.
- Watch out
for early signs of heatstroke, such as heavy panting, restlessness and
lack of coordination.
- Never leave
dogs in vehicles: “Not long” is too long.
- Contact a
vet immediately if the animal does not respond to efforts to cool it down.
- If
heatstroke or any other heat-related condition is suspected, dogs should
be taken to a cool, well-ventilated place and given water to drink while
seeking immediate advice from their local vet.