Twenty is Plenty – Dogs Trust issues warm weather guidance as summer temperatures rise

With the arrival of warmer weather, Dogs Trust has issued guidance that exercising dogs in temperatures as mild as 21 degrees centigrade can be problematic for dogs, particularly brachycephalic, or “flat-faced”, breeds such as English Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs.

In fact, according to recent research from the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in collaboration with Nottingham Trent University, English Bulldogs are fourteen times more likely to suffer heatrelated illness compared to Labrador Retrievers. Over a third of owners of flat-faced dogs reported that heat regulation is a problem for their pet.

While most dog lovers will be aware that extreme weather and heatwaves can be dangerous – sometimes even deadly – for dogs, many will be unaware that exercising dogs in early summer temperatures as low as 21 degrees can cause heatstroke in dogs. In some cases, heatstroke can prove fatal.

The symptoms of heatstroke can include panting heavily, drooling excessively, appearing lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated, vomiting, diarrhoea, and collapsing.

Paula Boyden, Veterinary Director of Dogs Trust, says:

“It’s great to see the sun shining; it feels like summer has finally arrived. But while this weather might be great for us, hot weather can cause problems for our canine friends.

“Most of us know not to walk or exercise dogs in extreme weathers, but even temperatures as mild as 21 degrees can cause problems, especially for those dogs with flat-faces or underlying health conditions.”

“There are so many things we can do to make sure our dogs stay happy and healthy in hot weather, but it is crucial we keep a close eye on them, even if we are playing indoors. That way, hopefully we and our dogs will be able to enjoy a long hot summer.”

Dogs Trust has issued the following Advice to support dog owners this Summer: l Avoid walking or doing activities either indoors or outdoors with your dog at the hottest times of the day, so early morning or later in the evening is often best. l Always take plenty of water with you when out with your dog and make sure they have access to fresh water at home at all times. l Tarmac can get very hot in the sun –check it with your hand before letting your dog walk on it so they don’t burn their paws. Try the ‘five-second test’ –if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. l If you cannot avoid taking your dog out in the car on a hot day, even if travelling a short distance, avoid travelling during the hottest times of the day. l Never leave your dog in a vehicle on a warm day. Not even with the window open. (Leaving your pet alone in a vehicle or tied up outside can also put them at greater risk of being stolen.) l Use a cooling mat or wrap an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel for your pet to lie on if they wish. l Use cold treats from the fridge for added moisture or make an ice lolly from pet-friendly ingredients. l Don’t let your pet get sunburnt - use pet-safe sun cream. l Know the early signs of heatstroke which include panting, difficulty breathing, tiredness, less keen to play, drooling and vomiting, and take immediate action. n To find out more about how to keep your dog safe this summer, visit www.dogstrust.org.uk/summerweather

Dogs Trust also advises that dogs should never be left alone in cars as even just a few minutes in a hot car can prove fatal. On a 22-degree Celsius day, the temperature inside a car could rise by eleven degrees in just ten minutes and as dogs can’t cool down the same way as humans, the heat can quickly become dangerous for them.

If you see a dog in a car in distress, the charity advises that members of the public call 999.

It all changed from the usual humdrum routine when Mistress opened the front door about two weeks ago when she nearly passed out with shock and I nearly wet myself (think Mistress may have actually done so!)

Because laying on our doormat was a beautiful Pea Hen basking in the sun!

Prunella (Mistress had to name her obviously!) stayed outside the front of our house for some days in between visiting the neighbouring houses and gardens.

Rumour had it that her mate had flown off and Prunella was waiting for his return. If you’re reading this Mr Peacock it wasn’t very nice of you to just fly off!!

Mistress was advised not to feed her but of course taking no notice out came some food (some of my dog food too)and Prunella enjoyed her stay far too much!

One morning she left and we hoped she’d found her partner and a safer place. We missed her and worried about her welfare.

But the other day she was spotted in the village on various rooftops and in gardens and seems to have now extended her social circle. She is currently much talked about on our local FB page!

Mistress used to speak to Prunella (yes I’m afraid she did) in a clucking language and now she’s left she has now started to cluck at me my mistake!!

I respond though as it seems rude not to.

I’ve had a groom since I last wrote my column and as you can see I look rather lovely! Perfect timing for the hot weather we are having.

My back legs are still giving me trouble so no more vigorous ball chasing for me but we still get out for walks - just at a slower pace. This suits Mistress as she’s hurt her back. What a pair we are!

Hope you enjoyed the Bank Holiday and had glorious weather!

Back next month and thank you for reading my column xx