Dog owners urged to check pets for key symptoms during hot weather

It's no secret that the weather has been getting warmer and, while it's great for us, it's not always good news for our dogs. That's because they can suffer if they get too hot

As the UK experiences rising temperatures, a vet has issued a warning to pet owners about the risks of heat for their furry companions. While sunny days are welcome for humans, they can be dangerous for our four-legged friends, posing threats like heatstroke. The Pet Health Club has taken to TikTok to offer guidance on how to recognize and handle heatstroke in pets. In a video, Veterinary Surgeon Kathleen Pohl cautions dog lovers about the condition, detailing symptoms to watch for.

Kathleen's advice in the video is clear. She says: “Heatstroke can happen to any dog on a warm day – even if it's not sunny out. The signs we watch out for – fast, heavy breathing or panting, wobbliness and weakness, excessive drooling, vomiting and general restlessness.

“If your dog has heatstroke, you need to take action quickly. We've got to get your dog's body temperature down as quickly as possible, and then get to your vet straight away.”

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To mitigate the problem while awaiting veterinary assistance, Kathleen offers a few crucial tips in the TikTok clip.

Concluding her advice with some myth-busting, Kathleen emphasizes: “Pour cold water on your dog, get them on a wet towel, give them water and put them in front of a fan. It's a myth if you pour cold water on your dog, they'll go into shock.

“Pour cold water on your dog. This could save their life. Don't put damp towels on top of your dog – this traps in the heat.

“Instead, put them on top of a wet towel. As you're doing this, call your vet, and they'll talk you through what to do next. To avoid heatstroke, don't walk your dog in the heat and avoid high-energy activities.”

When it comes to cooling down your pooch without causing harm, here's a handy tip. Use cool – not freezing – water, and drizzle it gently over their body. Focus on areas such as the chest, neck, belly, armpits and paws.

But remember, never douse their head or face with water, so you don't risk water getting into their lungs. This method can be a lifesaver by helping your doggie beat the heat.

How do dogs suffer with heatstroke?

Dogs aren't immune to heatstroke. Quite the opposite in fact, as some breeds are way more at risk than others.

Heatstroke occurs when a dog's body temperature rises too high, and its cooling mechanisms fail to keep up. Usually, dogs can suffer with the health issue when their bodies are unable to cool down properly in a hot environment.

They could experience this critical condition if they're stuck in a hot car, a warm space or just overdo it during some fun-in-the-sun exercise. Overheating can also happen if you take your pooch for a not-so-leisurely stroll during peak sun hours.

If you want to avoid the issue, here's what you need to do:

• Don't leave a dog in a car, even with the windows left open.
• Always make sure your dog has access to shade and water when outdoors.
• Offer plenty of rest and breaks during exercise, especially when the weather is warm.
• Avoid excessive exercise during the hottest parts of the day.
• Know your dog's individual needs and limitations, like those of brachycephalic breeds or older dogs.

If your dog looks like they're having heatstroke, contact your vet. They've got the know-how to guide you through whatever comes next.