Dog owners are reminded to take care of their pets during spells of hot weather. “Dogs are wonderful pets, companions and are an important part of the family for many people in Ireland,” said Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Charlie McConalogue TD. “While warmer weather is welcomed across the country by many, it is important that dog owners take some simple steps to protect their faithful friends from heatstroke and discomfort.”
These steps include:
• Never leave your dog unattended in a car, even if the car is parked in the shade or with windows open. The temperature inside the car may rise rapidly, causing heatstroke which can be fatal.
• Make sure your dog has a shaded area available to shelter from direct sunlight.
• Dogs should always have access to plenty of fresh water inside and outdoors.
• Exercise dogs in the early morning or evening. On longer walks, bring water for your dog to drink (collapsible bowls are useful).
• Walk your dog on cooler surfaces such as grass or shaded areas.
• Dogs with thin coats and/or white hair can get sunburn. Limit their exposure to direct sunlight and apply sunscreen to their ear tips and bridge of their nose if necessary.
• Be aware of the signs of heatstroke. These include heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, confusion, vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness or seizures. If you suspect your dog has heat exhaustion or heatstroke, please seek immediate veterinary attention. Try to cool the dog down by moving to a cooler location, preferably indoors, wetting their body, ears and paws with cool water and offering small volumes of cool or lukewarm water to drink.