WARNINGS ISSUED TO PET OWNERS AFTER A HEALTHY DOG DIED FROM HEATSTROKE IN ALTRINCHAM

The incident happened at around 9am when the temperature was a relatively low 21C considering the temperatures would rise even further. Imagine being out in the heat in a fur coat? Dogs can not sweat and so the only way they can lose heat from their bodies is to pant, this is even harder for some breeds who have been selectively bred to have flatter snouts.

The dogs death has prompted animal charities to again warn pet owners to be cautious about exercising their animals during the current heatwave.

A statement from the RSPCA reads,

Quote

 

"This morning we were informed a local dog died of heat stroke after being taken on a walk at 9am when the temperature was 21C.

"The dog was otherwise fit and healthy.

"Despite lots of warnings about the heat we still see dogs being walked to the shops, on the school run, or as soon as owners get in from work.

"We do understand the crucial nature of walking your dog, however please bear in mind that walking in high temperatures can cause serious and irreversible damage, and in some cases death.

"It does not matter if your dog is white, young, not a bull breed or used to the heat. Please be mindful of its needs."

 

Dogs suffering from heatstroke may...

Start to pant excessively

Begin to stagger as they walk

Begin having seizures

Have a high body temperature

Have a dark or bright red tongue

Have sticky or dry gums

Begin to vomit

If you suspect your dog has heatstroke...

Take them to a cool, shaded area

Call a vet immediately

Douse them in cool (not cold) water

Give them water - but gradually

Keeping your dog safe in hot weather...

Make sure they can always access plenty of fresh water

But don't let them drink too much too quickly or they may throw up

Avoid walks around midday - when it's likely to be the hottest

Avoid strenuous exercise between 11am and 4pm

Move your dog somewhere cold and shaded if they get too hot and sponge cool water on their abdomen, armpits and feet

If you leave them inside, ensure they can access a shaded area

Avoid walking your dog on dark, hot surfaces that absorb sunlight as it will burn their paws

Don't feed your pooch within an hour either side of exercise as this could cause bloating and gastrointestinal problems

If your dog doesn't have much hair, apply sun cream to exposed skin - particularly around their ears

If your dog has a lot of hair, consider trimming its coat to help it cope with the warmer temperatures

Cooling coats are also an option - these are jackets that can be refrigerated and worn by your dog to keep them cool

Breeds that typically overheat include: pugs, bulldogs, greyhounds and any thick pup with thick fur - but any dog can suffer in high temperatures

Image: Stock