Looking after man’s best friend comes as second nature to dog lovers. No matter what time of year it is, for most dogs, life is pretty swell – fusses, walks, love and care are all that they need for their tails to wag incessantly. Unfortunately, though, not all dogs are so lucky, with some owners not showing enough consideration for their needs during the hotter months.
As the summer takes hold, more and more complaints are made to Local Authorities about dogs being left outside in the back garden, all day. Some dogs are spending hours upon hours in the heat, with no control over their behaviour and without fresh food or water to keep them hydrated and healthy. It’s understandable that owners have to work, and while dogs are incredibly sociable, it’s not always possible to spend every waking moment with them. However, leaving them outside with no shade and no water, for any length of time, is a recipe for disaster. Remember that water evaporates in the heat, and wet food dries out quickly. Also consider the neighbours; a bored dog that is lonely and distressed at their owner’s absence will make a scene and become destructive.
Here’s how to make sure that your dog is a happy dog this summer, no matter how high the temperature goes:
Leave plenty of fresh water out. Change it often so that it remains fresh throughout the day. Replace dried up food with fresh food too. If possible keep food in a covered area for shade and protection.
Don’t leave a dog in the conservatory during the height of summer. They’re like greenhouses and dogs will swelter, just like humans would.
Walk them during the early morning, or later on during the evening, when the peak temperatures have dropped. Avoid exercising them in the middle of the day, because it’s far too hot for them. If you do decide to take your dog for a long walk in the heat, take water and plan stops for him to have a rest and a drink.
Never leave a dog in a parked car. Dogs can develop heat stroke in 15 minutes and can die in hot cars. Campaigns from the likes of the RSPCA, over the years, have helped to reduce the incidence of this, but it still happens. It needs to be stopped.
If possible, keep the pooch indoors. Not only is it cooler inside, but it will also minimise the noise and destruction that they may cause outside if left on their own.
If they do spend a large amount of time outside, ensure that they have access to a shady spot.
If travelling across a long distance with dogs, stop regularly to provide them with fresh water and fresh air.
Ask a vet about pet-safe sunscreen if the breed of dog is susceptible to sunburn.
Keep an eye out for signs of heatstroke – including excessive panting and drooling, increased heart rate, distress, fatigue and vomiting – and if spotted, take them to the vet immediately. However, providing them with shade and a cool environment should avoid any issues. There is more advice on doggy care by visiting the RSPCA site.
in collaboration with the RSPCA
