As the weather warms up and we get our first glimpses of summer, we won’t be the only ones running to find the sunniest spot in the garden.
And with heatwaves becoming more common due to global warming, many parts of the world are experiencing extreme heat on a regular basis.
Our furry companions often love basking in the sunshine just as much as we do, but unfortunately, too much exposure to sun, heat and summer relat ed activities can be problematic.
To help you out veterinary surgeon Dr Linda Simon, from pet food experts Pooch & Mutt, has some top tips and expert advice on how you can keep your pooch as safe as possible this summer.
Our furry companions often love basking in the sunshine just as much as we do, but unfortunately, too much exposure to sun, heat and summer relat ed activities can be problematic.
6. Keep your car cool
We all know the dangers of leaving a dog in a hot car, and ideally, we’d recommend you avoid doing it in the height of summer. However, if you must leave them for 15 minutes, make sure the car is kept cool by running the AC for a little while before you leave and opening the windows enough to allow some cooler air in. When travelling, it is also important to keep the car at a comfortable temperature for your pooch, so keep the AC running or lay a cool mat on the seat for your dog to lay on whilst you travel to your destination - of course, it goes without saying, this option should only be used if your dog is still able to be properly strapped in. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Know the signs of heatstroke
Possibly the most important tip of them all is knowing the signs of heatstroke. If your dog falls victim to heatstroke, it could be fatal, so knowing when your dog is suffering could be the difference between life or death. The first common sign of heatstroke in dogs is excessive panting and drooling Other symptoms might include reddened gums, vomiting, diarrhoea, signs of confusion, uncoordinated movement, collapse and, in worse cases, seizures. If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms, getting them to the nearest veterinary practice straight away will ensure the best possible outcome. Photo: Canva/Getty Images