An expert has issued a warning to dog owners about how their pooches will fare in the heat, with temperatures set to soar to 31C.
It may be tempting to take your pet for a stroll in the good weather, but the boiling tarmac can burn their paws, while dogs are also susceptible to heatstroke.
According to experts at Vets Now, at a temperature as low as 20C dogs are at risk of heat stroke. Between 20 and 23C, dogs are at risk of heat stroke if exercised too vigorously, or if they’re suffering from an underlying condition.
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Between 24 and 27C dogs who are flat-faced breeds, obese or very young will find the temperatures extremely uncomfortable. Vets Now warns that extreme caution should be taken with these types.
(Image: Getty Images/EyeEm)
When the temperature hits from 28 to 31C, the risk of heat-related illnesses risk becomes life-threatening.
Vets Now said that anything above 32C and all dogs, regardless of breed, face a life-threatening risk of heat stroke.
In 2021 a dog collapsed and died from heat exhaustion on the hottest day of the year while being walked near a reservoir in the Midlands.
Following the tragic incident, regulars at Tardebigge reservoir in Bromsgrove have issued a plea to all dog owners not to go there during the heatwave – saying it is too hot and too dangerous for man’s best friend.
Details of the incident were revealed earlier this week by anglers who regularly use Tardebigge Reservoir after temperatures there hit 30C.
(Image: Getty Images)
Posting on Facebook, Michelle Tuffley wrote: “I help run the fishing at Tardebigge Reservoir and please, I beg you all, do not take your dogs for a walk up to the reservoir.
“A dog died due to heat exhaustion this weekend. Our members did their best to help but it was too late. The dog had been walked up from Aston Fields and collapsed at the reservoir.”
It is important to keep dogs hydrated, watch out for hot surfaces, and know the signs of heatstroke – with one in four dog owners admitting they struggle with this last one.
Carrying something like a windbreak or pop-up tent with you when out and about with your pooch, to help provide them with some shade, can also be beneficial in helping them cope with rising temperatures.
And applying pet-friendly suncream to help protect their skin is also beneficial.
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