As Met Eireann warns of rising temperatures, remember animals, especially dogs are susceptible to heat stroke
As Met Eireann predicts today will be even warmer and sunnier, with highest temperatures reaching 24 to 28 degrees, KildareNow reminds viewers that animals and in particular, dogs will need to kept cool and hydrated during this rare, hot spell.
Animals, including dogs, can get heat stroke, just like people. Therefore it is essential to leave plenty of fresh water available for your pets, indoors and outdoors. Despite our lack of consistent sunshine, these ‘murky’ temperatures make animals and humans thirsty.
Do not leave dogs or small pets in your car, not even for short periods during this heat. It’s downright dangerous and your dog can get seriously stressed and ill very quickly.
TIPS TO KEEP YOUR PET COOL
Leave plenty of water available for your pet, indoors and outdoors at all times. Make sure the water is cool and fresh, and keep it in the shade.
Put out several bowls of water on really hot days. Use bowls that can’t be tipped over, and place them in a shady and cool spots where possible.
Older pets are even more vulnerable in the heat; keep a special eye on them to see if they are having trouble breathing.
Dogs love lying sitting in the sun. But time in the sun can cause heat stroke and increase the risk of skin cancers. So be sure to provide a shady area for your dog at all times.
Add ice cubes to your pets’ water bowls. This helps to cool the water and in turn, to keep their body temperature down.
If your pets can’t be in an air-conditioned area, consider placing a fan where it will blow on them.
During excessive sunshine, walk your pets only in the early morning or late evening. Avoid the hottest part of the day.
Freeze some treats and give them to your doggies, this will keep them chewing whilst helping to cool them down.
Dogs with fair noses can have sun factor applied lightly as believe it or not, they can get sun burn here too!
Be kind to your animals during the heat wave - plenty of fluids and shelter for them during the summer months.