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07/06/2009 - It’s not just cars that can be a danger to dogs in hot weather!
Staff at RSPCA Bristol Branch and Bristol Dogs & Cats Home are warning dog owners of the risks of walking their dogs in very hot weather.
At the RSPCA Bristol Animal Clinic they regularly see dogs that are suffering from heat stroke and during this heat wave have had to treat dogs with heat stoke after they had been taken out for a walk.
The Bristol Dogs and Cats Home have also had to limit dog walking, restricting it to before midday during this hot weather to prevent heat exhaustion.
Lynn Gilman, Dogs Home Manager said, “Whilst dogs need their exercise, their health and welfare is always our greatest concern and we have taken steps to avoid our dogs being out in the midday sun to prevent them suffering from heat stroke. We also want to advise other dog owners to follow the advice of the RSPCA and to walk their dogs in the early morning or evening to avoid the temperature extremes.”
All dogs will suffer in extreme heat, but some are more prone to heatstroke than others. Dogs that are old, young, short nosed, long-haired, overweight or heavily muscled are more at risk, as well as dogs already suffering from certain diseases.
If you are concerned that your dog may be suffering from heat stroke, you should act immediately. Warning signs include overly red or purple gums, a rapid pulse, vomiting and diarrhoea, lack of co-ordination and a reluctance or inability to rise after collapsing or suffering seizures. Move your pet to a cooler spot straight away before ringing your vet for advice immediately.
