The Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) has shared its tips for looking after dogs during periods of prolonged hot weather.
Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that can develop if an animal becomes too hot, and dogs are particularly at risk when they are outside exercising and playing. It can also be caused by being in a warm room without proper ventilation, being kept somewhere hot, such as a car, conservatory or kennel.
Any dog can develop heatstroke, but flat-faced, overweight, giant-breed, thick-coated, very old and very young dogs are most at risk.
Here’s how to keep your pup cool in hot weather:
- Only walk when it is cool, early morning and evening. Do not walk any dog during the hottest hours of the days (12.00pm-4.00pm).
- Light exercise only. When playing with your dog, allow lots of time for breaks in shade, provide water, and allow your dog to cool down.
- Provide lots of shade and plenty of water.
- No unnecessary travel. Never leave dogs in cars, even if windows are open; a car will remain too hot for any pet.
- Be extra cautious with flat-faced, overweight, giant-breed, thick-coated, very old and very young dogs.
How hot is too hot?
16-19 degrees Celsius: Generally safe to exercise at all times of days. Dogs most at risk of heat stroke should only be lightly exercised in the cool parts of the days (early morning, late evening).
20-23 degrees Celsius: While 20°C may not seem overly hot, dogs can still struggle in the heat, particularly during exercise or if left in enclosed spaces like cars or conservatories. All exercise should take place during cool parts of the day. Play time should be short, and have lots of time to cool down.
24-27 degrees Celsius: Extreme caution should be taken. Exercise should only be extremely light and take place when the sun has set. Focus on giving your dog cooling treats, toys and plenty of opportunity to spend time in shade.
28-31 degrees Celsius: Dangerous for all, but life-threatening for larger breeds and puppies as well as dogs who are flat-faced or obese. Stay cool and in the shade with lots of water.
32 degrees Celsius: Heat stroke is a major risk for all.
