Keep your hot dogs safe this summer!

Saturday 29 June 2019

With a number of families expected to be out enjoying the good weather, we're reminded dogs are at high risk of heatstroke when the temperature rises.

The GSPCA is telling dog owners to not leave their pet inside their car, as on a good day the temperature inside your vehicle could reach the high 40s within just an hour, meaning the animals left inside are at risk.

Even when the weather is not particularly warm, the temperature inside a car can be much higher than the outdoor temperature. 

GSPCA Manager, Steve Byrne, said "We have had calls already this year of dogs left in cars and vans in direct sunlight and we urge all dog owners to think before leaving their pet locked in what could be a potentially dangerous situation.”

Even with the windows open, it is still unsafe to leave your dog in the car, even if it is in the shade, he said. 

"It's fantastic we have lovely weather due, but we cannot forget the risks to our pets as the temperatures rise and especially direct sunlight on cars, vans, green houses and conservatories." 

Pictured: Steve Byrne holding the dog. 

Signs of heatstroke to look out for in dogs are: 

• heavy panting 
• profuse salivation
• a rapid pulse 
• very red gums/tongue 
• lethargy 
• lack of coordination 
• reluctance or inability to rise after collapsing 
• vomiting 
• diarrhoea 
• loss of consciousness in extreme circumstances 

Heatstroke can be fatal to dogs if left ignored and owners of dogs who are seen to be suffering from the heat this summer can face prosecution.  

Lorna Prince Welfare Manager said "At the GSPCA we do not want to see animals lives put in danger due to the hot weather and if anyone is concerned about a dog in a hot car or animal at risk please call us."

If your dog shows any symptoms of heatstroke, you should move him or her to a shaded, cool area and ring your vet for advice immediately. 

Dogs suffering from heatstroke will need to have their body temperature gradually lowered:

• Immediately douse your dog with cool (not cold) water, to avoid shock – you could put your dog in a shower and run cool water over him/her, or use a spray filled with cool water and place your dog in the breeze of a fan.  
• Let your dog drink small amounts of cool water.
• Continue to douse your dog with cool water until his/her breathing starts to settle – never cool your dog so much that he/she begins to shiver
• Once your dog is cooled down, visit your vet to ensure your dog is fine  

The GSPCA has also reminded pet owners that some dogs are more prone to heatstroke, such as those with short snouts, heavily muscled legs and long-haired breeds as well  as very old or very young dogs. Certain diseases can also increase the likelihood of heatstroke and some medications. 

Top tips for warm weather

• Your dog should always be able to move into a cooler, ventilated environment if he/she is feeling hot. 
• Never leave your dog alone in a car. If you want to take your dog with you on a car journey, make sure that your destination is dog-friendly – you won’t be able to leave your dog in the car and you don’t want your day out to be ruined! 
• If you have to leave your dog outside, you must provide a cool shady spot where he/she can escape from the sun at all times of the day.  Please remember that shade cover can move during the day.
• Make sure your dog always has a good supply of drinking water, in a weighted bowl that can’t be knocked over. Carry water with you on hot days and give your dog frequent small amounts. 
• Never leave your dog in a glass conservatory or a caravan. Even if it is cloudy when you leave, the sun may come out later in the day and make it unbearably hot.
• Groom your dog regularly to get rid of excess hair. Give long-coated breeds a haircut at the start of the summer, and later in the season, if necessary. 
• Dogs need exercise - even when it is hot. Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening. Never allow your dog to exercise excessively in hot weather.
• Dogs can get sunburned too – particularly those with light-coloured noses or light-coloured fur on their ears. Ask your vet for advice on pet-safe sunscreen. 
• Make an ice lolly or ice cream dog treat for your dogs to crunch and chew to cool down.

If you see a dog you think to be at risk of heatstroke, call the GSPCA on 257261.