We are in the midst of a heatwave that could turn deadly, not just for humans, but for our four-legged friends as well.

Dogs are unable to cool down the same way as humans – they pant instead of sweat – and the heat quickly becomes dangerous for them.

Animal charity the Dogs Trust’s top piece of advice is not to leave your pet in a car – even for just a few minutes – because the temperature quickly rises.

Their advice comes after American Bulldog Finlay was left fighting for his life after his body temperature soared while he was in a park.

He became overheated when his owner took him to a park in Glasgow.

Dogs Trust veterinary director, Paula Boyden, said: ‘There are so many things we can do to make sure our dogs stay happy and healthy in hot weather, but it is crucial we keep a close eye on them, even if we are playing indoors. If we all do this, then hopefully we and our dogs will be able to enjoy a long hot summer.’

Here are the top tips from the Dogs Trust

Plan your walks

Make sure you walk your dog earlier in the morning or later in the evening when it is a bit cooler. If your dog is unfit or overweight or suffers from breathing difficulties you will need to be particularly careful.

Seven-second test

If you are unable to leave your hand on the Tarmac for seven seconds, your dog won’t want its paws on there either.

Are dogs welcome? 

If you are going out somewhere and you know you’ll be stopping at a visitor centre, park or beach, make sure they welcome dogs. A lot of places have orders in place that could mean you are setting yourself up for a fine if you take them to certain places.

In that case it may be better to get a pet sitter or take them to the kennels.

Give them shade and water

Make sure there’s plenty of fresh water for them throughout the day and give them access to shade

Dogs get sunburn

Use pet-safe suncream on exposed parts of their skin, particularly ears and nose, and avoid direct sunlight.

Avoid long car journeys

If you have to take them on a road trip, use a sun blind to provide shade, avoid congestion as much as possible, keep water on board and take regular breaks

Source: Read Full Article