Published Date:
10 July 2009
Madam,
The Met Office recently issued a heatwave warning and if you are feeling hot you can be sure that your dog is also feeling the heat.
Humans are much more efficient at keeping cool than dogs.
Dogs do not sweat, they pant, and the more they pant to keep cool the more energy they exert – creating a vicious circle.
Dogs Trust, the UK's largest dog welfare charity, has some essential tips for keeping your canine companion cool and happy as the mercury rises:
Keep your dog in the shade or indoors at the height of the day. Walk them early in the morning or late at night.
Cover any pale skin on your dog's ears, nose or belly with a strong dog sunblock, available from pet shops. Human suncream can be toxic to dogs.
Keep a water bottle and a drinking bowl with you at all times.
Dogs dehydrate very easily.
Never leave dogs in hot cars, even when it's overcast and even with the windows down. Just 20 minutes in a hot car can prove fatal.
Summer is a wonderful opportunity to spend time outdoors with your pets, but please do so safely. If your dog shows any signs of distress contact your vet.
Chris Laurence
Veterinary Director
Dogs Trust
London
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Last Updated:
10 July 2009 11:45 AM
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Source:
n/a
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Location:
Ripley & Heanor
