How dog walks can become deadly when the heat risespublished at 10:59 British Summer Time
Sean Dilley
BBC News correspondent
Image source, Sean Dilley/ BBC NewsAs a guide dog handler of 26 years, my heart falls every time I hear the fatigued pants of dogs in heatwave weather.
Animal welfare charity the RSPCA says that dogs are 10 times more likely to suffer heat-related illnesses from exercising in hot weather than from overheating in cars. Both are tremendously bad for your dog.
Canines have a very limited ability to regulate their temperature. They don’t sweat like humans – only perspiring a small amount through the pads on their paws.
Heavy panting, difficulty breathing, excessive drooling, lethargy and drowsiness are all key signs that your dog is too hot. In extreme cases, dogs vomit and finally lose consciousness.
If your dog is in trouble, the RSPCA says, external you should move the dog to a shaded and cool area and immediately pour cool, but not very cold, water over the dog, avoiding their head.
Watch: How to keep your pets cool in the heat
