As tempeartures soar outside in the UK this week, the mercury inside a vehicle can rocket up quickly, putting dogs at heightened risk of heatstroke – especially flat-faced breeds like French bulldogs and pugs
Pet owners are being urged to remain vigilant during the heatwave after a French Bulldog died while trapped in traffic in a hot car.
The Frenchie – a breed which is at particular risk in hot temperatures – had to be rushed to Blue Cross animal hospital in Victoria, London after the owner got stuck in traffic and the poor pooch collapsed in the car as temperatures roared over 30C last weekend. Despite the best efforts of the vets, the beloved pet couldn’t be saved.
Vets at Blue Cross are now warning pet owners of the dangers of travelling with their pet in the car during extremely hot weather. Temperatures are expected to surpass 30 degrees several days this week and as the mercury rises outside, inside car temperatures can rocket up in a matter of minutes – meaning pets can succumb quickly to heatstroke.
Aysha Kent, vet at Blue Cross, said: “With temperatures set to soar in the coming days we’d really urge anyone to reconsider travelling with their pets during the hot weather – especially long distances.
“This is such a terribly distressing and sad case, and our thoughts are with the owner who did what they could to save the pet by rushing them into our care but sadly it was too late.
“While we often think our cars are cool when we’re driving, this is often due to the active cooling of fans, and the actual vehicle temperature is much higher than we know. Putting the windows down isn’t enough to stop the heat rising.
“Many pet owners will be aware of the risk of leaving dogs in parked cars but we’re sharing this incredibly sad story to make people aware of the dangers of travelling with your pet during the hot weather.”
Flat-faced breeds such as French Bulldogs and pugs are at higher risk in hot temperatures, along with overweight pets, very young or elderly pets, and pets with thick coats.
The charity – which has been helping sick, injured and homeless pets for more than 100 years – is also urging owners to consider keeping their pets inside, rather than walking them outside if the temperatures remain too high.
Aysha added: “Avoid the usual walks and just take dogs for brief toilet breaks in the garden or outside nearby. Give pets frozen or cooled treats to stay cool and, if possible, provide dogs with a paddling pool to cool them down.
“We’d recommend trying to leave your pet in a room with shade (for example with the curtains closed) and opening windows (where this is safe) if the air is cooler outside or there is a breeze.”
Early signs that your dog might be struggling with the heat include panting (especially if they have a curled tongue), slowing down or stopping on walks, and fast or heavy breathing. After this, you might see them drooling or lying down, followed by more serious symptoms such as vomiting, collapse or fits.
Aysha added: “If your dog shows any signs of heatstroke, start cooling them by moving them out of the heat and pouring cold water over them (not using wet towels as these warm up the skin too quickly) and take them to the nearest vet. This may not be your usual vet but will be quicker in getting your pet treated.”