THESE are the exact times you should avoid walking your dog with temperatures are set to rise to a scorching 34C this week.
It’s not just humans who are feeling the heat so it’s important to make sure your pooch is cool and comfortable this summer.
GettyIt’s recommended to walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening[/caption]
Our furry friends are particularly vulnerable to overheating, especially when exercised in the middle of the day.
Exercise is the most frequent trigger of heatstroke in dogs, say the RSPCA.
But there’s no “safe” temperature for walks as it can depend on your dog’s breed, age and health.
The charity recommends walking your dog early in the morning or later in the evening – ideally before 8am and after 8pm.
The hottest part of the day falls between 11am and 3pm and walking your dog during those hours could be dangerous.
Five-second test
The charity also suggests a handy “five second test” to determine whether it’s too hot outside for your pooch.
If you’re unable to comfortable hold your hand on the pavement for five seconds, then it’s too hot for your dogs paws.
It’s also advised to look for shaded areas and to walk on grass where possible.
Any running or cycling with your dog during high temperatures is also not advised.
There are some crucial tell-tale signs that could mean your dog is struggling in the heat according to the RSPCA:
limping or refusing to walk
licking or chewing at their feet
their foot pads are darker in colour or damaged
they have visible blisters or redness
But some dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke than others such as those with health conditions or thicker coats that trap heat.
Puppies and older dogs also find it more difficult to regulate their body temperature.
And certain flat-faced breeds may find it more difficult too.
This is because dogs pant to keep themselves cool so their shorter snouts make it harder for them to do so.
Symptoms of heatstroke in your dog can include excessive panting, drooling or foaming and confusion, say the PDSA.
But you should also be on the look out for shaking, weakness and collapse, vomiting or diarrhoea and even seizures.
If you identify any of these signs, it’s crucial to try and cool down your dog as quickly as you can.
This could include placing them in a shaded area, pouring cold water over their body but not covering them in a damp towel as this can trap heat.
The faster you can cool them down, the lower the risk of serious injury.
You should also contact your vet for guidance and any other potential treatment.
If you think your dog isn’t getting enough exercise, the RSPCA also recommends keeping them engaged at home with puzzles or training games.
It comes as temperatures have hit 31C today and even 34C in some parts of the country.
The soaring temperatures come as a fourth heatwave hits, according to the Met Office.
Symptoms of heatstroke in dogs:
According to the PDSA, symptoms of heatstroke in your dog can include
Excessive panting
Drooling or foaming
Confusion
Shaking
Weakness and collapse
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Seizures
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