Danger Days
Danger Days are those days that we can end up with a deceased pet or one that will be emotionally harmed - neither of them is something we want our pets to go through.
15 Minutes
What happens to dogs in hot cars?
Dogs in hot cars can suffer from potentially fatal heat stroke in as little as 15 minutes. Dogs die in hot cars as they can overheat very quickly and struggle to cool themselves down, even when a window has been left open or water has been left in the car.
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Never leave dogs in hot cars, outbuildings or without shade on a warm day (even if only for a short while).
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When it's 72°F outside, temperatures can quickly rise to 117°F in these environments, which can be fatal.
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Ensure pets always have access to shade and fresh drinking water to help keep them cool.
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Put ice cubes into your dog's water bowl or make some tasty ice cube treats. You could also freeze a kong with treats and water!
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Give your pet damp towels to lie on (never place a damp towel over your dog as this can trap in heat), *Dog Cooling Pads* or an ice pack wrapped in a towel. Both simple methods could provide welcome relief from the heat.
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Dogs may also appreciate a paddling pool to splash around in, although not all dogs like water, so there's no need to force them if they don't want to!
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Use pet-safe sun cream on exposed parts of your pet's skin, such as the tips of their ears and nose, to avoid sunburn. This is especially important if your dog has white or light-colored fur, as they can be very vulnerable to getting burnt. If you're unsure which is the right product to use, please ask your vet.
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Check every day for flystrike - this can be fatal. Flystrike is a painful and sometimes fatal condition caused by flies laying their eggs on another animal. These hatch into maggots, which eat the flesh of their 'hosts'. If your pet becomes infested, ask a vet for help immediately. Use a *fly off product* on your cat or dog.
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If you're planning a day out with your dog, check before leaving home whether dogs are allowed. If they're not, arrange a pet-sitter or choose another, dog-friendly attraction.
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Groom them regularly - regular grooming in warmer weather can help brush away any dead or excess hair, leaving your dog with a less dense coat - much better for staying cool!
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Walking your dog in hot weather
Dogs need exercise, even when it's hot. We recommend walking your dog in the morning or evening when it's cooler to reduce the risk of heatstroke and burning their paws on the pavement.
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Signs of burned pads
Try the 5-second test - if it's too hot for your hands, it's too hot for paws! You can also look out for:
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Limping or refusing to walk
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Licking or chewing at the feet
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Pads darker in colour
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Missing part of pad
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Blisters or redness
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Signs of heatstroke
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Heavy panting and difficulty breathing
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Excessively drooling
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The dog appears lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated
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Collapsed or vomiting
If you suspect your dog has the signs of heat stroke you must act quickly.
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