Overheating and heat stress can be a killer so here are some tips to help your dog have a happy and healthy summer.

SYMPTOMS:

• Panting excessively
• Drooling
• Increase in heart rate
• Reddened/purple gums
• Vomiting and Diarrhoea
• Seizures progressing to coma and even death.
  

TREATMENT:

As soon as possible move your pet to a cooler spot, keep them as quiet and calm as possible. Use wet cool towels to gradually lower the temperature and use a fan if possible. Contact your vet as soon as possible as serious complications may result.

PREVENTION:

• Exercise your dog early morning/late evening to avoid the midday sun.
• Ensure access to shade in the garden you could even supply a paddling pool!
• Have fresh cool water available, put ice -cubes in the water if taking some out with you.
• Be extra careful with either very young or old, overweight or longhaired animals. Some breeds are more likely to suffer including short-nosed breeds such as boxers and pugs etc.
• NEVER leave your pet in a parked car even on overcast days the temperature can increase dramatically.
• Clip longhaired breeds.
• Use a fan in the rooms where you pet likes to settle.