Waterford dog shelter urges public to give 'paws' for thought in hot weather

Waterford City and County Council Dog Shelter is urging the public to keep pets cool during the current hot weather spell.

With temperatures set to remain high for the coming weeks, dogs are at risk of developing heatstroke if they are walked in high temperatures or do not have access to shade.

Liam Power, Pound Manager at Waterford City and County Council Dog Shelter highlighted a number of precautions that should be taken to keep pets cool and safe during the summer.

“It is imperative that all pets have access to fresh, clean water," he said.

"The addition of ice cubes to their water bowl will ensure your pet keeps cool," he added.

"It is also vital that there is access to shade, so your pet can rest and take a break from the sun, and the risk of overheating."

Commenting on how dogs love their walks, Liam said walking in high temperatures can prove fatal for pets.

"Only walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening," he said.

"We’d also like to remind pet owners that if the ground is hot to touch when you place the back of your hand on it for five seconds, it’s certainly too hot for your dog’s paws to withstand," he added.

Liam also stressed that one of the biggest threats to dogs is being left unattended in cars during the hot weather.

“Never ever leave your dog unattended in the car, even with the window slightly ajar, and even for a few minutes," he said.

"When it’s 22-degrees Celsius outside, car temperatures can rise to 33-degrees Celsius [and] this can cause heatstroke and prove fatal for dogs," he added.

If members of the public see a dog in distress in a hot car, they should report it to the Gardai by calling 999 or 112.

"Another tip for keeping your four-legged friend cool is to invest in a Kong, which is a durable, rubber chew toy that can be filled with treats," said Liam.

He said a Kong can be filled with peanut butter or yogurt, and put in a freezer for an hour before treating your pet.

“Not only will it keep your dog happy and engaged, but it will also keep them cool, all while enjoying a tasty treat," he said.

Symptoms of overheating or distress include: Excessive / heavy panting; Drooling or salivating; Lethargy; Rapid heart rate; Vomiting and diarrhoea.

"If your dog is showing any of these signs, immediately contact your vet, move them into shade, provide room temperature drinking water, and cool their body with water [or] damp cool towel," said Liam.