WORCESTERSHIRE’s Animal Welfare Officer urges dog owners to keep their pets cool as temperatures continue to rise.
Do not walk dogs in the heat, do not leave them in the car – even for a few seconds – providing water to drink and shady areas inside and outside the house are just some of the best tips.
Pip Singleton of Worcestershire Regulatory Services said, “I can’t believe I have to remind people every year and every year dogs die from heat related incidents.
“We are all suffering from the heat this week and imagine being stuck in a car or going on a hike without shoes, as it would feel. Just a few degrees rise in body temperature can be harmful and even fatal to dogs, so it’s even worse for them!
“Even walking dogs where there is water to swim is not acceptable as jumping in the heat could cause a heart attack – so provide shallow bowls of water at home for them to paddle in.
“Please be thoughtful – if you are hot your pet is likely to be hotter, so treat them appropriately and keep them and yourself cool.”
If you are concerned about a dog’s welfare please call 01905 822799.