Early summer temperatures pose risk of heat stroke for dogs, warns Dogs Trust Ilfracombe

With the arrival of sunshine in Devon, Dogs Trust is cautioning dog owners about the dangers of excessive exercise in warm weather, even during mild temperatures forecasted for the upcoming weekend. 

The charity has highlighted that such conditions can lead to severe health issues, including potentially fatal heatstroke in dogs.

While many pet owners are aware of the risks of extreme heat waves for dogs, they might not realise that early summer temperatures can also trigger heat-related illnesses in canines.

The charity said that a recent study revealed that nearly 75 percent of heat-related illness cases in UK dogs were attributed to exertion, with over two-thirds occurring during walks alone.

Of particular concern are brachycephalic breeds like English Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs, which are especially vulnerable to heat. 

Research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in collaboration with Nottingham Trent University found that English Bulldogs are fourteen times more likely to suffer from heat-related illnesses compared to Labrador Retrievers. 

Over a third of owners of flat-faced dogs reported issues with their pets' heat regulation.

The symptoms of heatstroke in dogs include heavy panting, excessive drooling, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea, and even collapsing. 

Dogs Trust has advised  owners to act swiftly if they suspect their dog is experiencing heatstroke:

• Cool first, transport second: Immediately stop any activity and move the dog to a shaded and cool area.
• Start cooling them down urgently: For conscious, healthy dogs, immerse them in cold water, or continuously douse them with cold water if immersion is not possible. For older dogs or those with health conditions, spray them with room temperature water and use ice packs in their groyne and armpits.
• Monitor closely and seek veterinary assistance: Keep a close eye on the dog's temperature and behaviour, and contact a vet immediately for further advice.
• Dogs Trust emphasises that dogs should never be left alone in cars, as even a few minutes in a hot car can be fatal. If a dog is seen in distress inside a car, members of the public are advised to call 999 immediately.

Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director of Dogs Trust, urges owners to be vigilant: “After weeks of rain, it’s great to see the sun shining, and many of us will be taking advantage of it to enjoy the great outdoors. And with over a third of households now shared with a dog, we have no doubt that people will be keen to take their dogs along to join in the fun.

“But, while most of us know not to walk or exercise dogs in extreme weathers, even these lovely early summer temperatures can cause problems, especially for those dogs with flat-faces or underlying health conditions.

“As owners, we need to know the signs that our dogs are getting too hot and help them take a rest and cool down when they need to. Some dogs aren’t good at self-regulating and may continue to run and play even though they’re hot and tired, which increases their risk of heatstroke.

“If you do spot the signs of heatstroke in your dog, take steps to cool them down and contact your vet immediately.”