Parked Cars / Image by Colemay on Pixabay
Many people think it is alright to leave their dog in the car if they’re parked in the shade or the windows are open. However, even when the weather doesn’t feel that warm, a car (or any vehicle) can become as hot as an oven. When it’s 22°C (degrees Celsius) outside, a car can reach an unbearable temperature of 47°C within an hour. This is very dangerous and will cause your dog suffering and harm. It can also be fatal.
Heatstroke is when your pet has an extremely high temperature that is not caused by a fever but rather when they can no longer regulate and maintain their own body temperature. A change as small as 2°C in your pet’s body temperature is all it takes for heatstroke signs to begin.
Signs of heatstroke include:
Panting
Excess salivating (hypersalivating)
Red gums
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If you see a dog in a car and they are showing signs of heatstroke, dial 999 immediately. The police will inform you what to do in this situation. If possible, you can also try shouting for the owners of the car. If the car is parked in a supermarket car park, go to the store and ask staff to announce the vehicle registration.
Dog drinking water / Image by wolframo on Pixabay
Once the dog is out of the car safely, try cooling it down with cold water, if available. Otherwise, get it straight to your local vets. While waiting for the police, you could call the local vets and inform them, so they are prepared for your arrival.
Heat stroke can be fatal, so please, even if you’re just popping to the shops, do not leave your dog in the car.
Read more about the signs of heat stroke in dogs in our ‘Summer Dangers for Pets’ article.
If this article has raised any concerns about your pet, or you find yourself in an emergency situation with a dog suffering from suspected heat stroke, don’t hesitate to contact us on 01665 252 250.
