Hotdog tips & tricks - The Signs and Suitable Solutions

With the delightful weather ahead here’s some crucial advice concerning our furry friends from our wonderful friends at The Berkshire Vet. Remember all Honesty locations are pet friendly, most have cool air and there's always a shady spot to sit and sip.

What’s a Safe Temperature for Pets?

Most cats and dogs are happiest in temperatures around 18–22°C. Once temperatures are around 25°C and above, that’s when it starts getting risky. Older pets; puppies and kittens; Brachycephalic breeds like Bulldogs, Pugs and Persians: pets with thick coats and those pets with underlying health conditions (like heart disease or obesity) are particularly at risk of struggling in the heat and heatstroke.

What Are the Signs of Overheating?

• Keep an eye out for these signs your pet might be struggling:
• Heavy panting or breathing faster than normal
• Restlessness or appearing unusually tired
• Bright red gums
• Excessive drooling
• Vomiting or uncoordinated movements
• Refusing to eat or drink

If you notice any of these, call your vet straight away. Heatstroke can be life-threatening, but it’s often treatable if caught early.

How to Keep Pets Cool

Keep rooms shaded and well-ventilated — shut blinds during the day and use a fan or air conditioning if needed. Avoid conservatories — they heat up fast and can be dangerous. Leave out multiple bowls of cool fresh water in different rooms, change regularly. Cooling mats or damp towels for your pet to lie on can help. Lots of dogs enjoy paddling pools but remember to keep them out of direct sunlight if possible. Frozen treats like ice cubes and frozen treats can help to keep pets cool too.

What About Walks?

It’s not just hot cars that are a danger — pavements, parks and even short walks in the middle of the day can be risky. It’s best to stick to early morning or late evening walks. Remember to check the temperature of the pavement with your hand – if it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot for paws. And remember don’t leave pets in cars during hot weather. Hot weather can be lovely, but it does mean adjusting our routine for our pets’ safety. That may even mean skipping walks for a couple of days until it’s cooler again. If you're ever unsure whether your pet is coping okay, or if you just want some advice, be sure to contact your vet as soon as you spot any signs of heatstroke.

Visit The Berkshire Vet for more info