According to Lynne James, PDSA vet, heatstroke can be a huge problem for dogs at this time of year, and in severe cases can be fatal.

If a dog’s body temperature gets too high above the normal 38.6°C (101.5°F), they can become seriously unwell and need emergency treatment. Heatstroke symptoms vary from excessive panting, trouble breathing, stopping suddenly, confusion, bright red gums, foaming at the mouth, collapse or even seizures. However, there are plenty of things that can be done to keep dogs safe in warm weather.

Lynne suggests:

1) Avoid the heat of the day
Too much exercise in hot weather is one of the most common heatstroke triggers in dogs, so it’s best to stay indoors for the hottest part of the day. Instead, aim for outdoors time in the early mornings or evenings. When you do go out, avoid strenuous exercise like running or games of fetch. Gentle walking will allow your dog plenty of time to sniff, keeping their brain active as well as their legs.

2) Make sure your dog has access to shade and water
If you do go out, pack a supply of water for your dog so you can hydrate them throughout the day. Even if you’re just going out for a short time and it doesn’t seem that warm to you, it’s really important to take a drink for your dog in case they get thirsty.
Try to find shade and rest more often than you would if you were walking alone – imagine how often you’d take a break if you were hiking in a fur coat!
Cooling your dog down with a splash of water can help them maintain a comfortable body temperature. Or allow your dog to paddle in a shallow pool or stream to help them stay cool, making sure the water is safe and clean before they jump in.

3) Be aware of hot spaces
Dogs should not be left in small, unventilated spaces, particularly cars, caravans or sheds in any weather. If you’re at home with your dog, it is a good idea to keep windows and doors open on the shaded side of the house, allowing plenty of fresh air to filter into the room. If you’re leaving your dog home alone, make sure they’re in a cool, shaded room. Drawing the curtains, putting a fan on a high shelf out of reach or leaving them a pet-safe cool mat will help keep them cool while you’re gone.

4) Groom or clip your dog’s coat
Dogs with thicker fur will find hot weather especially uncomfortable. Consider having your dog’s coat groomed or clipped short during the warmer weather to help stop them over-heating. Also, be aware that flat-faced breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs and Shih Tzus are at a higher risk of heatstroke, as they can’t cool down as effectively through panting.

5) Watch their weight
Overweight dogs are more at risk of heatstroke. Keeping your dog at a healthy weight will stop them getting as hot in warm weather and have the added benefit of helping to prevent additional health problems.

PDSA is the UK’s largest vet charity and aims to improve pet wellbeing through prevention, education and treatment. See www.pdsa.org.uk for more information.