Urgent heatwave warning to Irish cat and dog owners as temperatures soar
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Pet owners in Ireland have given an urgent heatwave warning to protect their furry friends from the scorching sun.
The Irish Blue Cross sounded the alarm on Tuesday, urging cat and dog lovers to take extra care as temperatures soar across the country.
With a sizzling spell on the horizon, the charity is stressing the importance of keeping pets cool and comfortable, especially during exercise.
Dogs are at particular risk, and the Irish Blue Cross has highlighted that certain breeds, those with thick coats, older pooches, and flat-faced canines might struggle more in the heat.
Hot pavements can be a real danger to dogs' sensitive paws, so if it's too hot for your hand, it's definitely too hot for their pads, reports the Irish Mirror.
Dr Sophie Olah, Head of Veterinary Services at The Irish Blue Cross, has issued a plea to dog owners: "avoid exercising dogs on hot days".
"Thankfully most people are aware that pets should never be left in cars in hot weather, however, many pet owners are still unaware of the risks of walking their dog in the heat," explained Dr. Olah.
"Unless it's cool enough to take them out early in the morning, please avoid exercising dogs on hot days. Instead, keep them indoors, in the shade with access to plenty of cool water.
"If your pet is older, overweight, or flat-faced, take extra care, as it may still be too warm early morning or late evening to take them out without risking heat stroke. In fact, it doesn't need to be that hot for flat-faced pets to get heat stroke, so keep an extra special eye on them," she added.
While exercise is crucial for dogs, The Irish Blue Cross emphasises that in extreme heat, it's not necessary and all dogs should stay indoors, in the shade during such sweltering conditions.
Dr Ciara Sweeney, Veterinary Surgeon at The Irish Blue Cross, warns: "Heat stroke is extremely dangerous and can be life threatening. Signs of heat stroke include, restlessness, excessive panting, heavy breathing or difficulty breathing, drooling, change in gum colour from pink to dark red, pale, purple or blue.
"Pets may also be drowsy or uncoordinated and may collapse or vomit in severe cases. If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cool place, preferably with a draught and keep them still and calm. Wet their chest and stomach areas, where they have less hair, with cool water and contact your vet immediately."
For more tips on keeping your furry friend cool, check out www.BlueCross.ie.
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