The charity says it can develop very quickly in warm weather, especially during exercise, and can lead to seizures, organ failure or even death
With temperatures soaring across the country, the Irish Blue Cross is warning pet owners about the dangers of heatstroke in dogs.
The charity says it can develop very quickly in warm weather, especially during exercise, and can lead to seizures, organ failure or even death.
Temperatures over 20 degrees Celsius can put dogs at higher risk of heatstroke, especially during exercise.
While exercise is important for dogs, the charity advises it is safer to miss a walk on very hot days or walk your dog very early or late in the day in shaded cooler areas.
Symptoms of heatstroke in a dog are: 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, says the charity.
The veterinary charity advises pet owners who suspect their dog is suffering from heatstroke, to 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.
The charity is also warning of the dangers cats can face during hot temperatures.
"With more open windows, cats can get into all sorts of places and get accidentally shut in, so please check your garden sheds and sunrooms when closing your windows at night", said Dr Ciara Sweeney, Veterinary Surgeon at the Irish Blue Cross.
Advice to pet owners is to keep plenty of cool water available and consider closing blinds and curtains on very hot days to provide plenty of shade.
Met Éireann is predicting highs of 30 degrees today.
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