Dogs Trust Ireland warning about leaving your pet in hot cars.

Dogs Trust Ireland warning

The summer looks like it is finally here, at least for a few days and so Dogs Trust Ireland has issued a warning about leaving dogs in hot cars.

It is so easy for dogs to suffocate

If a dog is left in a hot car with no windows open during a heatwave they can not only suffer from heat stroke but also suffocate from lack of oxygen and expire in as little as 30 minutes.

With the hot weather now upon us, the Dogs Trust has issued the following important advice to keep your dogs safe from harm on hot days.

Never, ever leave your dog unattended in a car on a hot summer's day
Always park in the shade if you can as this will stop the temperature rising
Wind the window down slightly to reduce the temperature inside a car.
Always take plenty of water with you in the car for your pet
Avoid long car journeys with your dog in hot weather
If at all possible avoid the heat of the day and use a sunblind for shade.

The campaign manager for Dogs Trust Ireland, Sarah Lynch told media sources:

“We need to ensure our furry friends are kept safe and cool during a sunny day. You should never leave your dog alone in a car. Just a few minutes in a hot car can prove fatal for a dog."

“Many dog owners believe it is ok to leave a dog in a car if counter-measures are taken, such as parking under a tree or leaving a window open, this is a myth. In reality, lowering the window has no effect on the temperature inside a parked car."

“It’s also important to note dogs can suffer from sunburn just like us so try to avoid your dog getting too much sun exposure."

“Those facing a higher risk are dogs with white or light coloured hair. Always seek the advice of a registered veterinary practitioner before using sunscreen on your dog.”

Desre Daly, who is the Veterinary Surgeon for the Trust, Desre said:

“If your dogs display signs of heatstroke such as excessive panting, red gums and tongue, heavy salivation, vomiting or diarrhoea, lack of coordination or loss of consciousness, take them out of the sun immediately and seek urgent veterinary advice.”

If your dog displays any of these signs, they may be suffering from heat stroke:

Excessive panting and signs of discomfort
Inability or unwillingness to move
Drooling
Reddened gums
Vomiting and/or diarrhoea
Mental dullness (uncoordinated movements) or loss of consciousness
Collapse

In the event of this occurring, you should:

Quickly get the dog out of the sun
Offer your dog small amounts of cool water to drink
Seek immediate veterinary advice

Author

Justin Kavanagh
Justin Kavanagh is a recognised leader in automotive intelligence and vehicle data supply to the entire motor industry. He has almost 20 years experience in building systems from the ground up. As the Managing Director of Vehicle Management System, he understands the need and importance of trustworthy and reliable vehicle history and advice to both the trade and the public.
Follow me on LinkedIn