With temperatures hitting 30 degrees in parts of the UK this week, Britons are excited to make the most of the glorious sunshine. However, if you have a dog, it's important to understand the risks this heat poses to your dog.
Dr Samantha Webster, vet at Joii Pet Care used to saydogs encourages you to exercise your pet in the midday sun instead early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is lowest. But she now has another warning for dog owners who have artificial turf in their yards, saying letting pets run around in your yard can be just as dangerous as taking them out for a walk during the day.
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Getty Images/iStockphoto)She said:
"To test the temperature of any surface they might walk on, try pressing the back of your hand against the surface for at least seven seconds.
"While it doesn't get as hot as tarmac or paving slabs, synthetic grass can also pose a hazard to your pet's feet in the summer.
" If you have artificial turf, it heats up quickly in direct sunlight and should be treated with the same care as pavement.
"A recent survey found that 1 in 10 UK homeowners have already replaced their natural turf with artificial turf, and a further 29% are considering replacing it.
"If your outdoor space does not have natural grass (which keeps it much cooler), be sure to create a shaded area or use a cool, moist Lay down towels to rest and avoid leaving them empty
"Once the heat of the day has passed and the temperature has dropped significantly, it is safe to let them roam freely outside. It's okay, but if you're not sure, do a 7 second temperature check."
Animal Friends Pet Insurance , in partnership with Dr Samantha Webster, revealed that it cost over £400 for sunstroke at the veterinarian last year.
According to their data, breeds most at risk of developing severe sunstroke include bulls, terriers and Labradors. If you own one of these breeds,you should take extra precautions to keep them safe during warmer weather
this summer if your owner To avoid going to the vet, Dr. Webster added: It occurs when dogs and pets cannot effectively regulate their body temperature.
"Unlike humans, who can sweat from almost anywhere on their body, dogs can only sweat from their feet."
"To keep cool, they expel heat by panting, but when the temperature starts to rise, dogs are breathing in warmer air than they expel, so they can't breathe.
Their fur coats add
"Your dog is most at risk of sunstroke when exercising on a hot day. Your dog If your dog is experiencing a sunstroke, there are some tell-tale signs to look out for.These include excessive gasping, drooling, bright red gums, shivering, and vomiting.”
Dogs If your pet begins to show any of these signs, owners should immediately take them into shade and act to keep them cool.
A cool, damp towel should be placed over the pet's body, paying particular attention to its neck, armpits, and between its hind legs.
Owners may wet the dog's ears and paws with cold water.
"Allow your pet to drink water, but do not make it drink too quickly as it may swallow. If not, pour water over its tongue. Be careful. said Dr. Webster.
"The most important thing to remember is to never give ice to a sunstroke dog. This can put the system into a state of shock.
" After doing these for the first time, take your pet to the vet as soon as possible for expert advice.
"When temperatures reach 24 degrees Celsius, the likelihood of sunstroke increases, and extreme caution should be exercised, especially in large, very young, or flat-faced dogs."
"At 28 degrees Celsius, heat becomes dangerous. Applies to all dogs, but can be life-threatening for large breeds, puppies, or flat-faced dogs."
"Do not walk or sunbathe your dog in temperatures above 32°C. At these temperatures, sunstroke is a major risk for all dogs, regardless of condition, size, or breed."
Do you have a story about dogs? Email paige.freshwater@reachplc.com.
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