As the UK prepares for a sweltering summer, pet owners are being warned to take immediate action to safeguard their animals from the dangers of heatstroke and other heat-related conditions that can be deadly. Dogs, particularly breeds with flat faces such as bulldogs and pugs, are at highest risk due to their limited ability to regulate body temperature through sweating.
Experts stress that a car can become a death trap in mere minutes, even on a mild day, and unequivocally advise against leaving any animal unattended in a vehicle. With temperatures set to soar, it's crucial that pet owners take the following precautions: ensure animals have constant access to fresh, cool water and shade; restrict walks to the coolest parts of the day, typically early morning or late evening; and check pavement temperatures by placing the back of their hand on the surface for five seconds – if it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for paws.
Recognising the signs of heatstroke is vital. Symptoms include excessive panting, profuse drooling, lethargy, difficulty breathing, vomiting, diarrhoea, and in severe cases, collapse or seizures. If an owner suspects their pet is suffering from heatstroke, they should immediately move the animal to a cool, shaded area, offer small amounts of water, and apply cool (not cold) water to their fur and paw pads. Urgent veterinary attention is paramount.
While dogs are often the focus, other pets such as cats, rabbits, and small caged animals are also vulnerable. Owners must ensure they have access to shade, adequate ventilation, and plenty of fresh water. For rabbits, frozen water bottles wrapped in towels can provide a cooling spot in their hutch.