While it’s common knowledge never to leave a dog alone in a hot car, there are other dangers for dogs during the summertime, and here we look at some of those dangers that dog owners should be aware of.
1.HEAT
“If it’s too hot for you, then it’s also too hot for your dog.”
All dogs can suffer in the heat but senior dogs, puppies, black dogs and short-nosed dogs are at an increased risk of heatstroke. The sun is at its hottest between 11am-3pm, however on extremely hot days this increases and the sun should be avoided for longer.
Only walk your dog at cooler times of the day or in shaded areas. Avoid walking on pavements and roads as the ground temperature is significantly higher, remember your dog’s paws have no protection and they won’t notice their paws are burning until it’s too late. Hold your hand on the pavement or try walking barefoot, if after 5seconds It’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for their paws!
The temperature inside a car, even with the windows open is much higher than the outside temperature. If it is 70 degrees outside, then inside the car can rise to 100- 120 in just a few minutes.
Even just a few minutes in a hot car can be dangerous for a dog and the longer they are subjected to the heat the more chance it will affect their vital organs resulting in brain damage, heatstroke or even death.
Death can happen in just a few minutes! Leave them at home!
2.Rape Seed
Rapeseed is not only toxic if ingested, it can also cause skin lesions and effect dogs eyes and paws just from running through it.
We're now in the season where farmers fields turn golden yellow with rapeseed. However, pretty the fields look, please avoid walking through them with your dog as rapeseed is listed by Dogs Trust as toxic if ingested and can cause symptoms such as; Haemolytic Anaemia, Blindness, Damaged Nervous System, Digestive Disorders, and Breathing Problems. Reports have shown dogs can be super sensitive to this plant, also suffering skin lesions and burn like sores affecting their eyes and paws.
If you think your dog is showing symptoms of rapeseed poisoning, please seek treatment as soon as possible.
3.BBQ
Aside from the obvious risk of burns, BBQs also come with a host of other perils when it comes to our pets. For example, a small child could be carrying a chicken leg that can easily be snatched by a passing dog or plates left lying around with food can be an invitation for overeating.
Your dog doesn't know that the wooden stake left over from a chicken kebab isn't food and so it’s vital to make sure it’s out of reach. Be sure that rubbish is covered and children are supervised during family BBQs.
It is worth noting that corn on the cob also proves extremely dangerous, although not toxic, the cob is inedible and indigestible so there is a high risk of can cause choking and blockages.
Keep an eye on your dog around a BBQ — all they know is that the smells wafting from it are delicious!!
4.Garden Fertiliser & Plant Foods
Make sure you opt for pet-friendly products, but also make sure that the person applying them does so in appropriate areas and in appropriate amounts, and make sure the bag is put away somewhere safe.
5.Water Intoxication
If you're playing at a beach your dog consumes a large amount of salt water, the sodium levels in his body can rise, causing vomiting and seizures. Fresh water lakes and rivers, on the other hand, can cause sodium levels to drop too far, leading to unconsciousness.
We recommend you always take a fresh supply of water out on walks and make your dog rest.
6.Bees & Wasps
Dogs love to chase buzzing insects but getting too close can be dangerous. Most insect stings will simply cause your dog pain and irritation, but multiple stings can be fatal.
Dogs are also at risk when they snap at bees and wasps because this makes them more likely to be stung in the mouth or throat. Stings in these areas are hazardous because any swelling can block your pet’s airway. Some dogs are allergic to bee and wasp stings, so watch out for signs of allergic reaction, including swelling and difficulty breathing.
If you think your dog has been stung multiple times, or is having an allergic reaction, take them to a vet straight away.
Click here for our top tips to help your dog in the heat, this summer!
If you’re looking to have some fun with your dog this summer, click here to find out more about our Summer Fun workshops.