Staying cool and comfortable in the warm weather is as important for your pet as it is for you. Your dog relies on you for protection from the summer sunshine and heat.
This month, discover helpful information on the risks of sun exposure and find out how to keep your dog safe this summertime.
Help your dog stay hydrated
Make sure your dog always has access to multiple sources of fresh, clean water. You could even add ice cubes to their water bowl to keep it cooler for them.
If you will be travelling with your dog in the car this summer, make sure you bring plenty of water along for them to drink and never leave your dog alone in a car. Cars can heat up rapidly in just a few minutes, even with the window ajar.
Animals need sun protection on their sensitive areas, such as the tips of their ears, their noses and other areas exposed to sunlight. Pets with pink skin or light-coloured coats can be particularly vulnerable.
You can apply pet-friendly sunscreen — not zinc oxide-based treatments, which are toxic — about half an hour before your dog goes outside in the sun.
Discover the signs of heatstroke
There are some ways to tell whether your dog may be suffering from heat stroke; keep an eye out for the following symptoms:
Excessive or exaggerated panting
Lethargy
Weakness
High fever
Rapid heartbeat
Vomiting
If you notice your dog displaying any of these symptoms, contact a vet immediately.
Avoid hot surfaces
Hot pavements, beaches and other surfaces can injure your dog’s paw pads, so try to avoid taking them for a walk at the hottest parts of the day.
The rule of thumb is simple: If the surface is too hot for you to walk on barefoot, it’s too hot for your dog.
Read our helpful article for more information on keeping your dog cool.
When the UK gets warm and sunny weather it can be tough for pets. Here are a few tips for keeping your pets cool, and how to look after them in the sunshine!