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Bristol Post
Bristol Post
World
Toby Codd

RSPCA hot weather dog walking advice as temperatures soar

The RSPCA is urging dog owners to protect their pets during the current spell of hot weather. Temperatures hit 30C in Bristol over the weekend, with conditions set to remain warm this week.

Every summer, the pet charity receives hundreds of reports of animals suffering from the heat. Such incidents include dogs being left in hot cars, pets with heat burns on their paws, and dogs dehydrated or exhausted by the warmth.

The RSPCA is asking for all dog owners to be prepared. They have issued the following advice on how to look after your pooch this summer.

READ MORE: Bristol hotter than Majorca today as Met Office reveals when it will be hottest

Top tips for dog owners in hot weather

Here are some steps you can take to ensure your dog stays cool during the summer months, according to the RSPCA:

  • Never leave dogs in hot cars, conservatories, outbuildings or caravans on a warm day (even if only for a short while). When it is 22°C outside, temperatures can quickly rise to 47°C (117°F) in these environments, which can be fatal.
  • Use pet-safe sun cream on exposed parts of your pet's skin, such as the tips of their ears and nose, to avoid sunburn. This is especially important if your dog has white or light-coloured fur, as they can be very vulnerable to getting burnt. If you are unsure which is the right product to use, please ask your vet.
  • Ensure pets always have access to shade and fresh drinking water to help keep them cool.
  • Check every day for flystrike - a painful condition caused by flies laying their eggs on another animal - as this can be fatal.
  • Put ice cubes into your dog's water bowl or make some tasty ice cube treats. You could also freeze a kong with treats and water.
  • Give your pet damp towels to lie on (never place a damp towel over your dog as this can trap in heat) or an ice pack wrapped in a towel. Both simple methods could provide welcome relief from the heat
  • If you are planning a day out with your dog, check before leaving home whether dogs are allowed. If they are not, arrange a pet-sitter or choose another, dog-friendly attraction.
  • Groom them regularly - regular grooming in warmer weather can help brush away any dead or excess hair, leaving your dog with a less dense coat - much better for staying cool.
  • Dogs may also appreciate a paddling pool to splash around in, although not all dogs like water, so there's no need to force them if they don't want to.

Walking your dog in hot weather

Dogs need exercise, even when it is hot. The RSPCA recommends walking your dog in the morning or evening when it is cooler to reduce the risk of heatstroke and burning their paws on the pavement.

Signs of burned pads

Try the five-second test - if it is too hot for your hands, it's too hot for paws.

You can also look out for:

  • Limping or refusing to walk.
  • Licking or chewing at the feet.
  • Pads darker in colour.
  • Missing part of pad.
  • Blisters or redness.

Signs of heatstroke

  • Heavy panting and difficulty breathing.
  • Excessively drooling.
  • The dog appears lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated.
  • Collapsed or vomiting.

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