Dogs are really suffering in the current high temperatures across Britain.
A full fur coat is not ideal for summer, so many pet owners are doing all they can to prevent their furry friends from getting heatstroke. This is a serious illness that develops when a dog is too hot and struggles to lower their temperature and can affect any breed or age of dog.
It’s important dog lovers take the right steps to ensure their pets are kept cool by avoiding walking them during the hottest part of the day. They must also ensure they have access to shade and water when playing outside.
READ MORE: Is it best to have windows open or closed in hot weather as heatwave hits
But there is one small hack, which costs as little as 50p, that can help to keep your pet happy and healthy on a hot day. A misting spray of cold water may be just as effective as a paddling pool would be for your fluffy companion.
A spokesperson from retail company Tap Warehouse said: "Keep your pets cool with a spray bottle filled with cold water and gently spray over their body and feet. This will give a cooling effect and relax your pets as some can get distressed when they overheat.
"Better yet, reusable spray bottles can be bought for just 70p from The Range. You can also add regular ice cubes to your dog's water bowl to keep it cool or simply give them a few to chew on. It's a fun activity for them and it will also help them to cool down and hydrate."
Similar spray bottles are also available from Wilko for 50p or Amazon for £1. The spokesperson also offered other cheap ways to keep your pet cool.
They added: "If you don’t already have an ice-cube tray at home you can get them for as little as £1 from Asda. There are countless freezable toys on the market, such as this £2.50 B&M's Ice Cream Cooling Toy, which is a fun way to cool your dog down during the warm weather. These toys are also good for teething."
Signs of heatstroke in dogs
According to the PDSA, there are a number of mild to moderate symptoms that dogs show when experiencing heat stroke. Here are all of the signs that you should look out for.
Mild:
- Panting
- Fast breathing/difficulty breathing
- Lethargy (low energy)
Moderate:
- Drooling
- Foaming at the mouth
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Bright red gums/very pale gums
- Shaking
- Weakness and collapse
Severe:
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Unconsciousness
- Vomiting with blood
- Diarrhoea with blood
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