Pet owners advised to do 'pavement test' before walking dogs
Their poor little paws can't cope š¾
Last updated 20th Jul 2021
You know what it's like, we're desperate for the sunshine all year long, and when it finally makes an appearance we complain it's 'barful warm.
But for some of us, the heat can be completely overwhelming, especially if it's almost 30Ā°C. And no we're not talking about red heads!
It's safe to say if you're struggling in the heat, then our furry four-legged friends will be suffering too.
You might think the best way to cool your pets down is with a walk outdoors or trip to the seaside, but that might cause more damage.
How to check the temperature?
Hold your hand to the ground; if the heat is unbearable, then don't risk taking your dog out. Alternatively, if you do want to stretch your legs, wait until the coolest part of the day/evening to do so.
Unlike humans, dogs canāt sweat through their skin, and so they rely on panting and releasing heat through their paw pads and nose to regulate their body temperature and keep cool.
How to tell if your pet is overheating:
- Heavy panting
- Tongue may loll out of their mouth
- They may seem disorientated
- They may vomit
- They could be restless
- Tongue and gums may be bright pink or red
- They may excessively groom in an attempt to cool off
How to help cool pets down:
- Avoid exercise between 11am and 4pm.
- Keep them hydrated with Always make sure they have plenty of fresh water.
- Make sure they have access to a shaded area
- Donāt feed them within an hour of exercise
- If they have a lot of hair, consider getting their hair cut
Read more:
How long is NI's heatwave expected to last?
Top tips to keep your pets cool when it's hot outside
How to get to sleep when it's hot