Even at Temperatures Below 80 Degrees, Dogs Can Collapse From Heat
For Immediate Release:
June 9, 2011
Contact:
Kristin Richards 202-483-7382
Norfolk, Va. — Making sure that dogs get plenty of exercise is vital to their health. But once the hot weather arrives, dog guardians have to be very careful about overdoing it. For example, jogging with dogs in hot weather can be—and has been—deadly. Backed by the British Veterinary Association, the British Department of Environment issued a warning about jogging with dogs when the mercury recently climbed to only 79 degrees in parts of the U.K.
- If your dog is unwilling to keep up, tries to stop, or is inattentive or distracted for no apparent reason while running, do not force him or her to continue. These are signs that your dog is overheated.
- Dogs will often collapse before giving up, and by that time, it could be too late.
- Sidewalks, street asphalt, and sand get very hot and can burn a dog's pads. A rule of thumb is that if you can't comfortably walk barefoot on a surface, it's too hot for your dog as well.
If it's hot outside—or even just warm—keep dogs indoors, and never leave a dog unattended in a car, even if the car is parked in the shade. If you see a dog showing any symptoms of heatstroke—including restlessness, heavy panting, vomiting, lethargy, or a lack of appetite or coordination—get the animal into the shade immediately and call a veterinarian. You may be advised to lower a symptomatic dog's body temperature by providing the dog with water, applying a cold towel to the dog's head and chest, or immersing the dog in tepid (not ice-cold) water. Also, keep an eye on all outdoor animals, especially chained dogs. Make sure that they have adequate water and shelter. If you see an animal in distress, provide water for immediate relief and then contact humane authorities right away.
"Whether you're going for a run or going for a ride, dogs and hot weather can be a deadly combination," says PETA Vice President Daphna Nachminovitch. "The rule is simple: When heat waves strike, keep your animal companions indoors."
For more information, please visit PETA.org.