How to keep your dog cool during a heatwave: Top tips, from ice cubes to sun cream

att Cardy/Getty Images
att Cardy/Getty Images

The UK saw its hottest day of the year on Thursday but as Brits enjoy a week of glorious sunshine, those with pets have more to think about than just which factor SPF to apply.

Over-exposure to heat and sunshine can be harmful for animals as well as humans.

Vets Now, a provider of emergency veterinary care, warned that the average survival rate of a dog diagnosed with heatstroke was 50 per cent.

The RSPCA said it had received 330 calls in regard to animal welfare and the hot weather since March 23, adding it was expecting “hundreds more” as temperatures increase this week.

Heatstroke, sunburn and dehydration are all things to consider when it comes to caring for your pet.

Here is a list of dos and don'ts to help you keep your dog cool, healthy and happy during the heatwave.

A dog runs through the water at Loch Morlich, near Aviemore, Scotland on Thursday, the hottest day of the year (REUTERS)
A dog runs through the water at Loch Morlich, near Aviemore, Scotland on Thursday, the hottest day of the year (REUTERS)

Dos:

Remember water

If you go for a walk, take a bottle of water so your dog can drink from your hands every hour. If you plan to linger away from home, take a water bowl as well.

Provide ways to cool down

Even if you do not have enough space for a paddling pool or garden sprinklers (although these will go down well!), laying out a damp towel in the shade is a great way to give your pup a quick way to cool down. If you're dog is looking very hot and bothered, hold an ice cube to the back of his neck.

Groom regularly

(AP)
(AP)

Grooming prevents knots building up in your dog's coat. Matting like this can trap heat and be very uncomfortable during the summer.

Consider buying sun cream

Dogs with thin coats or lightly-coloured fur are the most vulnerable to burning. Speak to your vet about whether your animal needs sun cream. If so, you can pick up specialised creams at most pet shops.

Look out for symptoms of heat stroke

Heatstroke occurs when an animal is unable to reduce its body temperature. It can be fatal.

Look out for heat stoke (via REUTERS)
Look out for heat stoke (via REUTERS)

Battersea Dogs Home has listed the following as symptoms to watch out for:

  • Heavy panting

  • Glazed eyes

  • Rapid pulse

  • Excessive salivation

  • Lack of coordination

  • Vomiting or diarrhoea

If your dog is suffering from many of these symptoms, you need to act fast. Immediately take them out of the sun and help them to cool with wet towels, ice cubes and drinking water.

You can call Vetfone on 0303 334 0612 for emergency veterinary aid.

Don't:

Leave your dog in a car

Like babies, dogs should not be left in cars. Under the sun's glare, cars can rapidly reach dangerously hot temperatures with fatal consequences. If you see a dog in a hot car (even in the shade) call 999.

Play high-exertion games

Fetch might not be ideal for dogs who struggle with heat. If your dog seems to be one of them, play around with slow-paced games, like hiding treats for them to sniff out.

Go for a walk in the heat of the day

(Shutterstock )
(Shutterstock )

Avoid the hours around midday for your walk - if you feel the need to wear a hat, that is sure indication your dog will be uncomfortable walking under the glaring sun. Pick a route with a good amount of shade.

Expect your dog to walk on boiling surfaces

Again, if you are tiptoe-sprinting over a surface like hot coal, your dog's paws are probably burning too. Tarmac and sand can be too much for a dog's foot pads after a roasting in the sun, so help him or her find another way.

(PA)
(PA)

Over-cool your dog

If you do sense your dog is overheating - even if they have severe heatstroke symptoms - be wary over-cooling. Ice baths, for example, could send your pet into shock if its body temperature is very high. Stick to cool towels and single ice cubes. Give them small sips of water rather than enormous gulps.