With many of us enjoying this welcomed warm weather and reaching for our sunscreen and possibly a gin or two! It is also a time to be very aware of the detrimental effects this heat has on our pets. Unlike humans, dogs don’t have sweat glands on furry areas of their body, so it’s not as easy for them to cool down naturally. However, dogs can sweat via the sweat glands around their nose and on their paws but this is limited in relation to their size.
Breeds at risk...
Although the hot weather is dangerous for all dogs, there are certain breeds which are at greater risk. These are technically known as Brachycephalic but for arguments sake, lets just call them flat faced or squishy faced! Examples of these breeds are Pugs, French Bulldogs and Shi Tzus. Dogs pant to cool down so although it can look distressing, it is perfectly normal – without a nose, panting is simply less effective. In fact, brachycephalic dogs may even generate more heat simply gasping to breathe than they lose by panting.
But it is not just Brachycephalic breeds at risk, studies have also shown that Chow Chows are 17 times more likely to suffer from heatstroke than Labradors and also any large, giant and overweight breed is at risk.
Signs of heatstroke...
Dogs can experience a range of symptoms if they are suffering from heatstroke. If your dog is showing any of the following signs of heat exhaustion, take them to your local vet immediately.
Panting
Drooling
Whining
Lethargy
High temperature
Dehydration
Increased thirst
Increased pulse
Red or purple gums or tongue
Collapse
Vomiting
Seizures
How to prevent heatstroke...
Refrain from walking your dog. No dog ever died from missing a walk! If you must walk them, do so only first think in the morning or very late at night when it is cooler.
Provide plenty of fresh water and shade.
I shouldn't have to say this, but NEVER leave your dog in a car! Period.
Paddling pools are a great way for keeping your dogs cool and who doesn't love a pool?!
Apply pet friendly sun cream to areas of your dog that are succeptable, such as ears, nose and belly.
Cooling mats and jackets are also another great way of keeping your dogs body temperature cool.
Book your grooming appointments...
Good news! I am reopening the 3rd July so get your pups booked in as I have limited availability already! Its also another great way of keeping them cool so it is essential for a lot of them that they have regular appointments!
In the meantime, keep cool, keep safe and keep brushing!
Love Jen x
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