The nation’s largest dog welfare charity is warning owners that the temperature inside a car could rise to dangerously high levels in just a few minutes, leading to any dogs inside the car suffering with heatstroke.
In some cases, heatstroke can lead to the death of the dog.
Dogs Trust is also reminding owners that exercising dogs in warm weather can lead to severe health problems in our canine companions – three quarters of heat stroke cases are triggered by exercise – and even short walks in the heat should be avoided
Dogs can’t regulate their body heat in the same way as humans, and dogs can overheat in all temperatures, so extra care needs to be taken during warm weather.
If dogs are too hot and can’t sufficiently reduce their body temperature by panting, they may develop heatstroke which can be fatal.
Heatstroke can affect any type of dog, but certain breeds and types of dogs are at increased risk, including brachycephalic or flat-faced breeds such as English Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs, as well as older dogs, overweight dogs and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
Symptoms of heatstroke in dogs include panting heavily, drooling excessively, appearing lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated, vomiting and / or diarrhoea and collapsing.
Dogs Trust has additionally issued the following advice to support dog owners during this period of hot weather: