While we all spend the first half of the year wishing for a hot summer, when it finally arrives most of us are unsure about how to deal with the heat! While it’s easy for us to identify when we need to cool down to avoid heatstroke, it cannot be stressed enough how important it is for dog owners to pay close attention to their pet in such hot conditions, particularly when transporting them in a car.
Dogs locked in hot cars can be fatal
According to the Dog’s Trust, a dog can die in a hot car in just 20 minutes. The interior of a vehicle can get extremely hot during the summer and as such, can cause dogs to become extremely distressed and possibly even die if left alone. Contrary to common belief, leaving the windows open or parking in the shade can still be very dangerous for a dog as there is no proper ventilation.
Symptoms of heatstroke in dogs
When travelling with your dog in your vehicle, you must be aware of the warning signs of heatstroke so you can deal with it as quickly as possible. According to the RSPCA, symptoms include:
- Heavy panting
- Excessive drooling
- Lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated movement
- Vomiting
- Collapsing
Action to take if you see a dog in a car on a warm day
The first step you must take if you see a dog suffering in a hot car is to call the RSPCA, remembering to take note of:
- The dog’s condition
- The car’s registration number
- The location
According to the RSPCA, in the case of an emergency where a dog is trapped inside a car on a warm day and they cannot attend the scene quickly enough, you must ring 999 to inform the police who will then let the RSPCA know if animal welfare assistance is required.
First Aid
Immediate attention needs to be made to dogs suffering from heatstroke to lower their body temperature. The following first aid advice from the RSPCA will ensure the correct action is taken to avoid any fatalities:
- Move him/her to a shaded/cool area.
- Immediately douse the dog with cool (not cold) water, to avoid shock. If possible, you can also use wet towels or place him/her in the breeze of a fan.
- Allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water.
- Continue to douse the dog with cool water until his/her breathing starts to settle but never so much that he/she begins to shiver.
All of the information supplied in this article will help you identify heatstroke in dogs and learn how best to deal with it; advice which is especially important during these summer months. Here at Green Lane Farm we are dedicated to providing exceptional care to your beloved pet by conforming to the highest standards possible. We offer clean, purpose-built boarding kennels and a cattery to make sure your pet feels completely safe and comfortable during their visit, even providing a collection and delivery service for ultimate convenience. Simply contact our friendly team today for further information.
