‘Always keep a watchful eye' – Irish pet owners issued stark warning over mistake that can be fatal

The Irish Sun

a day ago

IRISH vets have warned of the dangers of heatstroke as temperatures continue to sizzle.
Across the country, with temperatures set to exceed 29C, The Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSPCA) is advising owners to be 'vigilant of their
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Irish dog owners are being urged to keep a close eye on their furry friends
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DSPCA bosses said it is essential for owners to 'keep pets cool and safe'.
The rescue vets warned that heatstroke is a 'life-threatening condition' that can develop if an animal becomes too hot.
This can cause seizures, organ damage, internal bleeding, coma and even death.
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It can also be caused by being in a warm room without proper ventilation, being kept somewhere hot such as a
Any dog can develop heatstroke, but flat-faced, overweight, giant-breed, thick-coated, very old and very young dogs are most at risk.
Head of Operations at the DSPCA, Suzanne McGovern, said: 'With hot temperatures forecast for the rest of the week, we must be mindful of how important it is to keep our pets comfortable.
'The warm and dry temperatures can be dangerous for our pets, so it is vital that you follow the advice for keeping your pets cool during these periods.
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'Ensure they have access to lots of water and there are shaded areas where they can rest.
'Always keep a watchful eye on your pets and be responsible when exposing them to the conditions.'
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Dog owners should only go on walks when it is cool, early morning and evening.
Do not walk any dog during the hottest hours of the days between 12pm-4pm.
Ensure your pooch is only doing light exercise only.
When playing with your furry friend allow lots of time for breaks in shade, provide water, and allow your dog to cool down.
Owners need to provide lots of shade and plenty of water.
Do not take your dog on unnecessary journeys. Never leave dogs in cars even if windows are open; a car will remain too hot for any pet.
Owners of breeds with flat-faced, overweight, giant-breed, thick-coated, very old and very young dogs must be extra cautious.
If you see an animal in trouble or distress, particularly in a car even if the window is open or in an outdoor area without shade or water, please contact the DSPCA on 01 4994700 or [e-mail].
How hot is too hot?
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• 16-19 C Generally safe to exercise at all times of days. Dogs most at risk of heat stroke should only be lightly exercised in the cool parts of the days (early morning, late evening).
• 20-23 C No dog should be exercised rigorously. All exercise should take place during cool parts of the day. Play time should be short and have lots of time to cool down.
• 24-27 C Extreme caution should be taken. Exercise should only be extremely light and take place when the sun has set. Focus on giving your dog cooling treats, toys and plenty of opportunity to spend time in shade.
• 28-31 C Dangerous for all, but life threatening for larger breeds and puppies as well as dogs who are flat-faced or obese. Stay cool and in the shade with lots of water.
• 32 C Heat stroke is a major risk for all.
While 20°C may not seem overly hot, pets – especially dogs – can still struggle in the heat, particularly during exercise or if left in enclosed spaces like cars or conservatories.
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Owners should not walk their dogs between noon to 4pm during heatwaves
Credit: Getty