Keep pets safe in hot weather

With temperatures set to increase over the coming days, The Irish Blue Cross is appealing to pet owners to keep their cats and dogs safely out of the sun. The animal welfare charity is particularly concerned about the number of dogs who are exercised in hot weather.

Depending on your dog's breed, coat, age and whether they are flat faced, they may not tolerate warm weather. Dogs’ paw pads can also burn on hot pavements. As a rule, if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.

Dr Sophie Olah, Head of Veterinary Services at The Irish Blue Cross, explains: “Thankfully most people are aware that pets should never be left in cars in hot weather, however, many pet owners are still unaware of the risks of walking their dog in the heat. Unless it’s cool enough to take them out early in the morning, please avoid exercising dogs on hot days. Instead, keep them indoors, in the shade with access to plenty of cool water. If your pet is older, overweight, or flat-faced, take extra care, as it may still be too warm early morning or late evening to take them out without risking heat stroke. In fact, it doesn’t need to be that hot for flat-faced pets to get heat stroke, so keep an extra special eye on them.”

While exercise is important for dogs, The Irish Blue Cross advises it is not necessary in extreme heat and all dogs should be kept indoors, in the shade during periods of very hot weather.

Dr Ciara Sweeney, Veterinary Surgeon at The Irish Blue Cross continues: “Heat stroke is extremely dangerous and can be life threatening. Signs of heat stroke include, restlessness, excessive panting, heavy breathing or difficulty breathing, drooling, change in gum colour from pink to dark red, pale, purple or blue. Pets may also be drowsy or uncoordinated and may collapse or vomit in severe cases. If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cool place, preferably with a draught and keep them still and calm. Wet their chest and stomach areas, where they have less hair, with cool water and contact your vet immediately.”

For further information on keeping your pet cool, please visit the charity’s website www.BlueCross.ie