Look out for your pets in hot weather

With rising temperatures forecast over the coming days, The Irish Blue Cross is urging pet owners to keep their cats and dogs safely out of the sun. The veterinary charity is particularly concerned about the number of dogs who are exercised in hot weather, and those left in hot cars.

Temperatures over 20 degrees Celsius can put dogs at higher risk of heatstroke, especially during exercise. However, dogs with underlying conditions, such as obesity, or those with flat faces, like Pugs and Bulldogs are at risk even in temperatures cooler than this.

While exercise is important for dogs, the charity advises it is safer to miss a walk on very hot days or walk your dog very early or late in the day in shaded cooler areas.

Dr Laura Mock, Head of Veterinary Services at The Irish Blue Cross explains: “Heatstroke is a potentially life-threatening condition for dogs. It can develop very quickly and, if not treated promptly, can lead to seizures, organ failure or even death.

Sadly, we are still seeing dogs being walked at the hottest times of day, struggling to breathe and dogs being left in cars while their owner shops. Being left in a car in the heat, even with the window ajar, can be incredibly distressing for dogs and ultimately fatal. Even if you are only going to be a few minutes, please consider dropping your dog home first and heading back out by yourself, it’s just not worth the risk to your dog’s health and happiness.”

Signs of heat stroke include, restlessness, excessive panting, heavy breathing or difficulty breathing, drooling, change in gum colour from pink to dark red, pale, purple or blue. Pets may also be drowsy or uncoordinated and may collapse or vomit in severe cases.

Dr Ciara Sweeney, Veterinary Surgeon at The Irish Blue Cross continues: “It’s not just dogs we need to watch out for. With more open windows, cats can get into all sorts of places and get accidentally shut in, so please check your garden sheds and sunrooms when closing your windows at night.

For indoor pets, please keep plenty of cool water available and consider closing blinds and curtains on very hot days to provide plenty of shade.”

The veterinary charity advises pet owners who suspect their dog is suffering from heatstroke, to move them to a cool place, preferably with a draught and keep them still and calm. Wet their chest and stomach areas, where they have less hair, with cool water and contact your vet immediately.

The charity also notes that while ice cubes are safe for most healthy dogs as an occasional treat, they should not be used as a method of cooling a dog suffering from heatstroke. In an emergency, controlled cooling with water and immediate veterinary care is essential.

FURTHER DETAILS

For further information on keeping your pet cool, please visit the charity’s website www.BlueCross.ie