Hampstead village vet urges owners to protect pets as temperatures soar
Briefly

To keep pets safe during hot weather, avoid taking them outside during peak temperatures. Ensure they have ample fresh water and cool areas to stay. When walking dogs, opt for early morning or evening. Never leave dogs in cars, as temperatures can quickly rise, leading to heatstroke or dehydration. Recognize signs of heatstroke, such as excessive panting. Provide shade and cool water to affected pets immediately. Using sun cream that is pet-safe is advisable for pets prone to sunburn, particularly on areas with little fur.
It is important to avoid leaving dogs in cars during the hot weather. Even with a window left open, temperatures inside a vehicle can reach up to 50C within minutes, posing a significant risk of heatstroke or dehydration.
Signs of heatstroke can include excessive panting and heaving flanks, which aids heat loss, as dogs can only sweat through their pads.
If a dog shows signs of heat exhaustion, you should immediately find shade and cool them down by pouring, hosing or immersing your pet with cold water, then call your vet straight away.
Pets with light skin and short, or thin, hair, such as white dogs and cats, are more susceptible to developing skin cancer, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors.
Read at www.hamhigh.co.uk
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