WITH temperatures consistently reaching the high twenties so far this summer, and expected to top 30 on Monday, Jersey pet owners are being reminded to keep their furry friends safe and cool in the heat to minimise their risk of heatstroke.
Dr Hannah Hussain from New Era New Era Veterinary Hospital told the JEP that although her surgery has yet to come across many cases of heatstroke this year, heeding certain advice will keep the numbers of animals, especially dogs, needing heat-related medical attention to a minimum.
What should dog owners do on a hot day?
- Walks are not essential: Dr Hussain explained that taking your dog on a walk every day is not essential as it is safer for them to stay indoors in the heat.
- Walk pets at cooler times of the day: If owners do take their dogs on a walk in the summer, they should make sure to take them out at cooler times of the day such as very early morning or later in the evening. “Never in the middle of the day”, Dr Hussain said.
- Pay attention on walks: If your dog is panting heavily or wanting to lie down the vet explained owners should take their pet to a shady area and not force them to carry on.
- Bring water: Dog owners should also carry water for their pets during any walks in the summer. It can be used for hydration or to cool the animal’s coat.
- “No time in the car”: Dr Hussain urged dog owners to avoid keeping animals in the car at all times in the summer, even with the windows open.
- Hand test on pavements: A quick way to assess if the ground is suitable for a pet’s paws on a walk is by testing it with your hand. If you cannot hold your bare hand on the ground for more than five seconds, it’s too hot for an animal to walk on.
Symptoms of heatstroke
For anyone concerned their pet is not coping well in the heat, Dr Hussain said there are immediate actions they can take at home.
Dr Hussain explained symptoms of early heatstroke in dogs included excessive panting, agitation, pacing and drooling. A dog’s gums and tongue will also turn a deep red.
She added that owners should abide by the term “wet then vets”, meaning if an animal is showing early signs of heatstroke, they can be eased at home by dousing the animal in cool water.
However, if the case of heatstroke is more advanced, the animal may collapse and be at risk of seizures meaning they should be taken promptly to a vet.
