RSPCA tells dog owners ‘don’t do this’ during heatwave

Britain is currently experiencing a blistering heatwave and people have been asked to take precautions to keep themselves healthy in the hot weather.

It’s not just human beings who need to worry when it’s scorching outside because our pets can be badly impacted, too.

The RSPCA issued an urgent warning to pet owners who may be tempted to walk their four-legged friends in the searing heat. Some owners ignore their guidance by taking their pets out for a stroll – and this can have devastating impacts.

A deeply troubling video has now provided some dog owners with the reality check they urgently required. It showed the tragic consequences of pets overheating in hot weather.

The clip, so distressing that it features a TikTok warning, depicts a dog struggling on a veterinary examination table as it attempts to cool down. The suffering animal can be observed heavily breathing while fighting for air, salivating excessively and looking disorientated.

The RSPCA accompanied this video with a warning, writing: “Involving your pooch in your family outings may feel like the right thing to do this summer, but when the weather gets hot there are some considerations and practical steps that we must take to ensure our dog’s health and welfare is always being prioritised.

“Dogs sadly die on hot walks. If in doubt, don’t go out! Spotting the signs of overheating could mean the difference between life and death.”

Symptoms of heatstroke in dogs:

The RSPCA has identified the following warning signs that owners must watch out for:

• Muscle spasms: these heat cramps are often associated with dehydration, and might appear as shivering and shaking despite the high temperatures.
• Noisy breathing: breathing noisily or faster than normal, especially if the dog is a flat-faced breed, is a sign of overheating.
• Panting: dogs cool down by panting, so the more they pant, the hotter they are.
• Red gums and tongue: whilst this is often a symptom of a dental problem, when coupled with panting and heavy breathing, red gums can occur when a dog is overheating.
• Seizures: heatstroke, especially in dogs with epilepsy, can trigger seizures and loss of consciousness.
• Vomiting and diarrhoea: stool that’s softer than normal can be a symptom of heat exhaustion. Stool and diarrhoea that contains blood are signs that the heatstroke has become more severe.
• Weakness and lethargy: the dog might sleep more, have trouble standing or walking, or generally seem more sluggish with their movements.

Whilst all dogs can suffer from overheating in warm conditions, those with underlying health issues, flat-faced breeds and dogs with dense coats face the greatest danger. If you observe your dog struggling in the heat, it’s crucial to halt movement, provide them with water and seek shade immediately.

Before transporting your dog to the vet, you must cool them down first. Mist them with cool water, keep them hydrated, and call your veterinary practice for further instructions.

For more information, visit the RSPCA website. Taking the time to read more on this subject could help to save a dog’s life.