This comes in the form of dehydration, which can quickly occur in dogs, cats and other animals.
A group of leading vets have issued advice on the signs to spot, how to treat it and the best times for walking your dog in the season.
Sadie Spencer, principal vet at Vets Now, said: “Dehydration can develop quickly in dogs, cats, and other animals – and in severe cases, it can be life-threatening. Just like humans, in hot weather, pets need more water.
“Pets lose more moisture through panting and can overheat faster during warm spells.
“It’s even more important in warmer weather to make sure your pet has constant access to fresh, clean water — both indoors and outside.”
What are the signs of dehydration in pets?
Some of the signs of dehydration in pets include:
- Dry nose or sticky gums
- Sunken eyes
- Extreme tiredness/ reluctance to move
- Weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Collapse
- Skin that doesn’t spring back when gently pinched
Dehydration requires immediate veterinary attention, as if left untreated, it can cause serious organ damage and even death.
How to prevent dehydration in pets
There are a few steps you can take to help keep your pets hydrated in warmer weather, which include:
- Refresh water bowls regularly throughout the day
- Add an ice cube to bowls for a cooling boost
- Place multiple water stations around your home and garden
- Offer pet-safe frozen treats or ice cubes
- Always take water with you on walks
- Never leave pets in cars or conservatories, even for a few minutes
How to test your dog for dehydration
Sadie explains: “To test if your dog is dehydrated, use your thumb and forefinger to pinch a little skin on their back or the top of their head.
“If they are well hydrated, the skin should spring back when you release it. As the skin loses moisture, it will move back into place more slowly. In the most severe cases of dehydration, it does not spring back at all.”
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“It can be difficult to assess in older, overweight or underweight animals, or for breeds with thick or long-hair coats or with excessive skin folds.”
What are the best times to walk dogs in hot weather?
Sadie recommends walking dogs before 9am and after 6pm on days when the weather is warm.
Walks should be kept relatively short, you should stick to mostly shaded routes, and you should bring water along with you.
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