WITH temperatures set to soar this weekend and well into next week, Blue Cross is warning owners of the dangers of pets in the heat and is offering advice to keep pets safe in the sun.

Flat-faced breeds such as French bulldogs, pugs, British bulldogs and Persian cats, are at a greater risk of heatstroke and can even collapse as their short muzzles can make breathing difficult, according to the charity.

Older pets and those who are overweight also struggle in the heat.

Caroline Reay, Head of Veterinary Services at Blue Cross, said: “Just recently we treated a French bulldog who had been taken out on a run who had collapsed.

“While we enjoy the sunshine and warm weather it is important to make sure our pets are kept safe. They can quickly overheat and sometimes this can be extremely dangerous and even fatal. The heatwave will certainly prove too hot for most of our pets, so please do walk dogs early in the morning and late at night when temperatures are lower.

“Never leave your pet alone inside a car, even with windows open it can quickly become like an oven and dogs become overcome with the heat.”

Blue Cross advices: 

  • Walk your dog during cooler times of day in the early morning or evening and avoid strenuous games.
  • Make sure your pet has access to clean water at all times, ideally in a large bowl filled to the brim. Older animals, particularly cats, are vulnerable to dehydration.
  • As a general rule, if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pooch’s paws. If your dog is one that needs a long walk to burn off excess energy, find other ways to stimulate them instead.
  • Light-coloured dogs and cats can get sunburnt which can lead to skin cancer. Keep sunbathing pets indoors when the sun is strongest. You can also apply a non-toxic human sunscreen or one specifically for pets to vulnerable areas like ears and noses.
  • Pets with thick fur will need regular grooming and even a trim to prevent them overheating. Seek advice from a professional groomer.
  • For small pets like rabbits and guinea pigs, make sure their hutches and runs are in shady areas so they can keep cool and make sure they are clean at all times with water topped up.
  • Make ice cubes with your pet’s favourite treat inside.
  • Have a paddling pool with cool water in the garden for dogs to play in.
  • If you suspect your animal is suffering from heatstroke, remove them to a cool place, dampen their coat with tepid water on a towel and contact a vet immediately. Avoid overcooling, especially small pets.

For more advice on how to keep your animal safe this summer, visit www.bluecross.org.uk/summer