The summer has arrived once more on the Jubilee Bank Holiday Weekend. I'm not sure about anyone else but it no longer feels like just a 'taste' of summer but that the weekend has officially felt like the humidity of summer has hit even on the overcast days, and with street parties in full swing before the incoming rain hits, I've been noticing something else that we all once again need to be very mindful of, particularly if you are a dog owner or you look after dogs whilst their owners are away.
The humidity, heat and sun should be a big reminder that our canine family members do not tolerate heat very well due to their lack of sweat glands in their skin to release excess heat. Instead they pant to release heat from their tongue.
I've noticed quite a few dogs out in the humidity and heat in the past 24-32 hours and it concerns me. When the days are hot, dogs should be walked before 9.30am and after 6.30pm when the temperatures are lower. However, the humidity levels and asphalt/pavement heat should also be taken into consideration. Imagine wearing a winter coat or even a fleece all day in the current temperatures. You aren't allowed to take it off and there isn't always shade around, your only respite is the brief stops along the way. This is how a dog feels, and unfortunately I've seen dogs with a winter coat out in this heat. This puts them at great risk of heat exhaustion and worse.
Please be mindful of the temperatures and your canine family members. If you know you are going to be out in the sun all day and are unable to provide somewhere cool for your dogs to sit, lay or stand in for more than a few moments then it is best they stay at home and you pop back to see them.
Alternatively, if you are unable to do this for whatever reason then I can organise a time for myself to visit your pooch.
Above and below are a few images including the temperatures that dogs are able to be in and unable to be in and the temperature at which their paws will be safe from burns. Remember, the hotter it gets the greater the risk to your dog.
The other images below are all to do with general summer heat safety for dogs by well known charities.
Keep your dog and yourself safe this summer and the summers to come. Enjoy the British sunshine.
Paws Up!
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