Heatwave warning: keep your canine cool as temperatures soar

Hot weather has hit, with the Met Office issuing a yellow alert across parts of the UK until Monday 19th June for the heatwave. But while the nation’s thoughts are turning towards BBQs and beach trips, Go.Compare’s pet experts warn we should be taking extra precautions to protect our four-legged friends.

Dogs in particular can really struggle to regulate their temperature in hot weather. Unlike humans, dogs can’t sweat through their skin, and can only cool down by panting and sweating through their paw-pads. Their thick fur also makes them more prone to overheating – so it’s important to be safe in hot weather and avoid any unnecessary risks.

Ceri McMillan, GoCompare’s Pet Insurance expert, says: “With the weather spiking into the thirties this week, there is a real risk of our pets overheating – but there are lots of things we can do to decrease the risk. Here’s our checklist for pet owners:

• Time walks carefully – avoid walking your dogs during the hottest parts of the day. Instead, time walks for the early morning or late evening, when temperatures are lower.
• Pack plenty of water – when heating outdoors with your dog, pack a bowl and lots of water to prevent dehydration.
• Seek out shady spots – take a rest somewhere shady if your dog is panting, and be careful of pavements too – when temperatures soar, they can be too hot for pets to walk on.
• Consider a good groom – certain breeds will benefit from having extra fluff removed at the groomers, and regular brushing will also help keep them clean and comfortable.
• Never leave dogs in the car unattended – leaving dogs in cars on hot days, even for a very short time, is known to be life-threatening and should be avoided – as a cracked window simply isn’t enough.
• Limit exercise – discourage long, high-energy runs and exercise in hot weather, even if your dog seems keen, as this will increase the risk of them overheating.

“Though cats are generally better at coping with hot climates, there are a few precautions cat owners should take, too. Constant access to water is important – as well as providing shade both inside and out of the home. White cats can be more sensitive to heat and sunlight, so if your cat has white fur, you may want to think about limiting their time outside at the hottest points of the day. You can also speak to your vet about pet-suitable sun cream.”

“If you notice signs of heatstroke in your dog or cat, it’s important to consult a vet immediately. Watch out for the warning signs:

• heavy panting
• Dry or bright gums
• Excessive drooling
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Wobbly legs
• Reduced energy levels.

“Having the right pet insurance in place is also important, and will help with your peace of mind. Be aware that pet insurers typically require a certain level of care from you as the pet owner – and could refuse to pay out if they feel you haven’t taken the proper precautions. Check policy documents carefully so you fully understand your cover. Most importantly, follow the guidelines above and your vet’s advice to reduce your pet’s risk of dehydration, sunburn and overheating – which can be fatal.”

To learn more about caring for pets in hot weather, visit: https://www.gocompare.com/pet-insurance/safety-in-hot-weather/

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