Animal charities' warn owners not to leave dogs in hot cars and how to keep pets cool in the heat - The Bromsgrove Standard

Animal charities' warn owners not to leave dogs in hot cars and how to keep pets cool in the heat

Bromsgrove Editorial 29th Jun, 2019   0

THE RSPCA has warned dog owners not to leave their pets in hot cars. If temperatures reach the late 20s as expected today, it can be over 40 degrees celsius in the car, causing dogs to overheat quickly and risk their lives.

If the dog is distressed or displaying signs of heatstroke – such as panting heavily, drooling excessively, lethargic or collapsed and vomiting – call the police on 999.

You will need to provide the make, model and registration number of the car. Once removed from the car, the dog should be moved to a shaded/cool area, doused with cool water and given small amounts of water to drink.




People’s instinct to break into the car to free the dog can be classed as criminal damage.

Photos or videos of the situation should be taken in this instance to prove a lawful excuse to break in – such as it would be sanctioned by the owner because of the serious situation.


 

Blue Cross advice to ensure pets are kept cool during the heatwave

BLUE Cross has issued advice to ensure pets are kept safe during the hot weather since high temperatures can be uncomfortable and potentially fatal for animals, writes Alice Green.

Caroline Reay, senior vet at the Blue Cross, said it was crucial to think carefully about your pet during hot weather, ensuring they always have access to water.

Caroline also emphasised how common burns from hot pavements were, advising owners to test the pavement.

The charity urges owners to walk dogs at cooler times of the day such as early morning or late evening, especially if they are overweight, old or flat faced breeds.

If your pet has signs of heatstroke such as excessive panting and dribbling or collapse, a vet should be contacted immediately.

Pets should never be left alone in a car, even with the windows open, but should be kept in areas shaded from the heat.

Blue Cross warns pale coloured cats, dogs and horses are vulnerable to sunburn particularly on their ears, noses and sparsely haired areas. Sun damage can lead to skin cancer which requires surgery – sometimes even amputation – to treat.

Hot weather brings with it more fleas and ticks so treatments recommended by your vet must be carried out.

Visit www.bluecross.org.uk/summer for more advice.

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