Dogs Trust issues warm weather advice
Owners are being urged to take care when walking their dogs this summer.
Dogs Trust has issued guidance on exercising dogs in warm weather, telling dog owners that ‘twenty is plenty’, as temperatures of just 21 degrees centigrade can cause heatstroke in dogs, especially brachycephalic breeds.
Research from the Royal Veterinary Collage in collaboration with Nottingham Trent University has shown that more than a third of owners of flat-faced dogs have reported that heat regulation is a problem for their pet.
Although many owners know to avoid exercising their dogs in extremely hot weather, the dangers of milder temperatures are less well known.
Dogs Trust has issued the following guidance:
· Avoid walking or doing activities either indoors or outdoors with your dog at the hottest times of the day, so early morning or later in the evening is often best
· Always take plenty of water with you when out with your dog and make sure they have access to fresh water at home at all times
· Tarmac can get very hot in the sun – check it with your hand before letting your dog walk on it so they don’t burn their paws. Try the ‘five-second test’ – if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws
· If you cannot avoid taking your dog out in the car on a hot day, even if travelling a short distance, avoid travelling during the hottest times of the day
· Never leave your dog in a vehicle on a warm day. Not even with the window open. (Leaving your pet alone in a vehicle or tied up outside can also put them at greater risk of being stolen)
· Use a cooling mat or wrap an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel for your pet to lie on if they wish
· Use cold treats from the fridge for added moisture or make an ice lolly from pet-friendly ingredients
· Don’t let your pet get sunburnt - use pet-safe sun cream
· Know the early signs of heatstroke which include panting, difficulty breathing, tiredness, less keen to play, drooling and vomiting, and take immediate action.
Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director of Dogs Trust, said: “Most of us know not to walk or exercise dogs in extreme weathers, but even temperatures as mild as 21 degrees can cause problems, especially for those dogs with flat-faces or underlying health conditions.”
“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. That way, hopefully we and our dogs will be able to enjoy a long hot summer.”
Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty. 
