How to Keep Your Dog Cool this Summer

News release

12th July 2013

Following reports in recent weeks of the deaths of at least two dogs through heat exhaustion in the UK, Jerry Green Dog Rescue is asking dog owners to be vigilant when it comes to the weather.

“Not only is it dangerous to leave a dog in a car in summer,” warns Jerry Green’s Behavioural Consultant Rosie Myers, “there are other dangers to your dog’s health when it comes to hot weather – some which you may not have previously thought of.

“We want dog owners and their furry friends to have as much fun as possible this summer, without the risk of any accidents, illnesses or having to make an emergency trip to the vet!”

Jerry Green Dog Rescue has now issued a useful 10-step advice list for dog owners to ensure they are aware of the risks that hot weather brings to their pets, and what to do to prevent summer accidents, discomfort or illness.

Many people may not have realised that dogs can also suffer from hayfever, for example.

Other key tips include keeping an eye out on walks for any poisonous areas that may have been chemically treated, or plants that you’re unsure of. The charity also advises pet owners to keep mindful when having a barbecue, keeping bones, matches and lighter fluid out of the way.

“If you’re feeling too hot in summer, the chances are your dog is too – they simply can’t tell you,” says Rosie. “Our list will help you to prevent overheating and keep your pet happy all summer long.”

Jerry Green Dog Rescue’s Summer Advice List:

Don’t:

Don’t leave your dog, even for a few minutes, in a car, conservatory or caravan – even with windows open. After just an hour in a car, the temperature can more than double.

Don’t forget your dog is an individual. If it’s fatter, furrier, has a flatter nose, is a puppy or an old dog or it has an illness, make sure you keep it from overheating.

Don’t leave your dog outside all day. If you have no choice, make sure they have plenty of water and shade and check on them regularly. But be careful – some thirsty dogs have been known to drink antifreeze when unattended, as they like the taste!

Don’t let your dog stand still or walk for too long on asphalt, concrete or tarmac.  They heat up rapidly in high temperatures and can severely burn dogs’ paws.

Don't ignore the signs of heatstroke. They include heavy panting, profuse salivation, a rapid pulse, very red gums or tongue, lethargy, lack of co-ordination; reluctance or inability to rise after collapsing, vomiting, diarrhoea or loss of consciousness.

Do:

Do choose your longer walking times carefully. Try to go out in the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or in the evening.

Do take immediate action if your dog is displaying any of the above heatstroke symptoms. To cool your dog, douse it in cool, not cold, water and let it drink small quantities of cool water, until its breathing has steadied. Then take it to the vet immediately as heat stroke can be fatal.

Do make sure your dog has plenty of water. If you’re leaving your dog inside for any amount of time, make sure it can’t knock over its water bowl. Always have a cooler room in the house, with open windows and closed curtains, which your dog can lie down in if it gets too hot.

Do remember dogs get sunburn too, and even skin cancer. Make sure you apply pet sunscreen to any light coloured noses or ears.

Do remember that dogs also get hayfever! If your dog is scratching excessively, take it to the vet as it could lead to infection.

Notes to editors:

Jerry Green Dog Rescue was founded in 1961 in Broughton, Lincolnshire and is now one of the UK’s largest dog rescue charities. It has rescue centres in five locations: 

• Broughton near Brigg, North Lincolnshire

• Algarkirk near Boston, Lincolnshire

• Blidworth near Mansfield, Nottinghamshire

• Gilberdyke, East Yorkshire

• Thirsk, North Yorkshire

Jerry Green Dog Rescue has a caring ethos which puts the dogs in its care at the centre of everything it does. It also operates a policy whereby prospective adopters are introduced to dogs in a neutral environment away from the kennel, resulting in less stress for the dog and increasing the chances of permanent homes being found.

The adoption process at Jerry Green Dog Rescue involves a number of introductory visits and the rehoming team provide pre and post adoption support to ensure the move to the dog’s new home is as smooth as possible.

The charity receives no Government or National Lottery funding.  This means it is dependent on the generosity of public and corporate donors/sponsors.

For media information please contact:

Jez Ashberry
Shooting Star PR

01522 528540
07780 735071

jez@shootingstar-pr.co.uk 

@jezashberry

Jez Ashberry
Shooting Star PR
01522 528540
jez@shootingstar-pr.co.uk
www.shootingstar-pr.co.uk
t: @jezashberry

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