Heatwave warning for pets as dogs can die in cars in as little as 20 minutes and even walks can be deadly – most vulnerable breeds revealed
Dog deaths in cars could increase this month as temperatures rise, animal experts have warned.
Brits should beware of leaving their beloved puppies locked in hot cars – even for just 20 minutes.
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Pooches can quickly overheat in hot, sometimes deadly conditions when your car is parked and the weather is only getting warmer.
Today is the hottest day of the year so far with highs of 27.5°C at Heathrow.
The scorching temperatures make it warmer here today than Santorini or LA.
Driving out of what may be the warmest May on record, drivers need to be extra careful of man’s best friend.
Heatstroke or heat stroke could kill your pup who doesn’t necessarily realize he’s overheating.
Even outside of the car, people should not take long walks with their pets in extreme heat – an even worse danger that experts are campaigning against.
Esme Wheeler, RSPCA specialist on dog welfare, said: “The message remains very simple – never leave a dog in a hot car because ‘not long’ is too long, and when it comes to walks, ‘go.’ when in doubt, don’t go out.”
She added, “All dog breeds are at risk, but if your dog has an underlying health condition, particularly one that affects their breathing, they can overheat more easily, as can overweight dogs, double-coated dogs, and some large and flat-faced breeds.”
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dr Dan O’Neill, Associate Professor of Companion Animal Epidemiology at the Royal Veterinary College, explained how veterinarians view dogs with a range of problems.
He said: “Heat-related illnesses can lead to organ failure, brain damage and ultimately death.
“It can take weeks for a dog to adjust to hot weather, so periods of heat following a period of cold weather can be particularly dangerous.”
Battersea Dogs & Cats Home echoed Esma and Dr. Dan – the charity advised: “Under no circumstances leave your dog alone in the car.
“Leaving you alone in a warm car, even for a few minutes, can be fatal – even if the car was parked in the shade or a window was left open.”
But the sweltering heat poses a threat to both riders and their pups.
Motor experts have warned that this sneaky rule could catch you driving this summer.
If you forget your sunglasses you could end up in hot water driving in hot weather – you could be slapped with a £1,000 fine or three points on your driving licence.
The Highway Code also reminds drivers to remain vigilant, as hot temperatures mean roads change and stuffy cars could put you to sleep.
Top tips for keeping dogs safe in the heat
What Are the Signs of Heat-Related Illness in Dogs?
- Excessive panting that does not stop when the dog is resting.
- Difficulty breathing, especially if you hear unusual sounds or blue/grey discoloration of the gums or tongue.
- Unusual tiredness – getting tired earlier than normal.
- Behavior changes – lying down and stumbling more often.
- less desire to play.
To keep dogs comfortable in warm weather
- Never leave your dog in a hot car.
- Never leave your pets in a vehicle or trailer, or in a conservatory or outbuilding.
- Exercise dogs early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler.
- Avoid overexerting dogs in warm weather and do not encourage them to overexert themselves while playing.
- If you know your dog has an underlying medical condition, then use extra caution in hot weather or consider skipping walks altogether.
- Provide constant access to fresh, clean water and cool, shaded resting places.
- Avoid dogs on long days in the heat.
- Remember that sidewalks can get very hot in warm weather – if you can’t keep your hand on the ground comfortably for five seconds, it’s too hot for your pooch’s paws too!
- If necessary, use pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas of your pet’s skin
When you see a dog in a hot car
- In an emergency, your best bet is to dial 999 and report a dog in a hot car to the police. The RSPCA may not be able to intervene quickly enough and as we do not have clearance to enter the country we will require police assistance should such an incident occur.
- You can call the RSPCA’s 24-hour Animal Cruelty Hotline on 0300 1234 999 for advice, but if a dog is in danger dialing 999 should always be the first step.
https://www.thesun.ie/motors/8810740/heatwave-pet-warning-dogs-die-cars-20-mins/ Heatwave warning for pets as dogs can die in cars in as little as 20 minutes and even walks can be deadly – most vulnerable breeds revealed