We all love when the sun finally decides to show. The walks by the beach, the iced coffee taster that bit more refreshing, and everyone suddenly remembers they own sunglasses. But while the warmer weather is great for us, it can be a lot more dangerous for our dogs.
Dogs Trust is reminding dog owners in Ireland that “Twenty is Plenty” when it comes to taking your dog out for a walk. The charity is urging owners to rethink their usual routes or walking times, as even if it does not feel too hot for humans, it can quickly become unsafe for dogs, particularly when they are exercising.
The long lunchtime walks might be harmless to us, but they can put your dog under a lot of stress. Dogs cool down very differently from humans; they do sweat but only through their paw pads and noses and mainly cool down their body through panting. So, when both the air and ground temperatures rise, dogs can overheat a lot quicker than we might expect.
This is why Dogs Trust is advising owners to take the necessary steps to protect their pets. This includes shorter walks, planning walks to avoid the warmest times of the day and to bring water for your dog on longer walks.
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Niamh Curran-Kelly, Veterinary and Welfare Manager at Dogs Trust Ireland, explained: “‘Twenty is Plenty’ is an easy way for dog owners to remember that their pooches can struggle when the temperatures rise, and to keep exercise sessions under 20 minutes.”
She also warned that while some dogs can cope better with the heat than others, it is always best to be cautious. Certain breeds with thicker coats and breeds that often suffer respiratory issues, such as Bulldogs and Pugs, as well as older dogs and overweight dogs, are more at risk. But no dog is fully immune to heatstroke, and it can develop quickly in any dog.
These signs may include excessive panting, heavy drooling, vomiting or even colic. And if your dog does so, these signs the charity advises that you move them to a cool area, pour room-temperature water over their body and contact your vet as soon as you can.
Dogs Trust is reminding owners to never leave dogs in the car on warm days. Even when mild, temperatures in the car can rise quickly and leaving the window open does very little to keep the car cool inside.
Keeping dogs cool at home is also very important. Making sure they always have access to water and a cool place away in from the sun. Frozen treats and paddling pools are also fun ways to keep your dog cool that they will greatly appreciate.
So yes, enjoy the sunshine while it lasts. Just maybe leave the midday dog walk off the summer agenda.
Because when it comes to warm weather, Twenty really is Plenty, and that is the point.
Words by Andrew Connolly