Dogs Trust Ilfracombe issues crucial warning to pet owners as temperatures soar

Dogs Trust Ilfracombe is issuing a crucial warning to pet owners as temperatures are set to soar to a scorching 30°C in parts of the UK. 

With the UK Health Security Agency placing most of England under yellow heat alerts, the welfare of our canine companions is at significant risk.

Dogs Trust highlights that dogs are particularly susceptible to heat-related health issues because they can't regulate their body temperature as effectively as humans.

In extreme heat, dogs can suffer from heatstroke, which can be fatal if not promptly addressed. 

The charity has said that even a short walk or play session in such high temperatures can lead to severe health problems for dogs.

Flat-faced breeds, known as brachycephalic dogs, including English Bulldogs, Pugs, and French Bulldogs, are particularly vulnerable to the heat. 

Signs of heatstroke in dogs include heavy panting, excessive drooling, lethargy, drowsiness, uncoordinated movements, vomiting, diarrhoea, and collapsing.

A recent study revealed that nearly 75 percent of heat-related illnesses in UK dogs were due to exertion, with over two-thirds of these cases resulting from walking alone.

Dogs Trust has provided vital advice for owners who suspect their dog is suffering from heatstroke:

• Immediate Action: Prevent further worsening of your dog’s condition.
• Cool First, Transport Second: Move the dog to a shaded, cool area and begin cooling them urgently.
• Cooling Techniques:
• For young, healthy dogs: immerse in cold water, such as a paddling pool, keeping their head above water. Alternatively, douse continuously with cold water.
• For older dogs or those with health conditions: spray with room temperature water, avoiding the face, and combine with air movement from a fan or air conditioning. Place ice, wrapped in a tea towel, in their groyne and armpits.
• Monitoring: Closely monitor cooling and stop if shivering occurs.
• Avoid Wet Towels: Do not place a wet towel over the dog as this can raise their temperature.
• Veterinary Assistance: Call your vet urgently for further advice and transport the dog there as quickly as safely possible, ensuring the car is cool.

Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director of Dogs Trust, urges pet owners to be vigilant: “Dogs can’t regulate their body heat in the same way as humans, so extra care needs to be taken. 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.”  

Furthermore, Dogs Trust advises against leaving dogs alone in cars, as temperatures inside vehicles can rise rapidly, becoming fatal within minutes.

If you see a dog in distress in a car, it is imperative to call 999 immediately.