DSPCA Issues Urgent Warning To Pet Owners Amid Soaring Temperatures

The Dublin Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (DSCPA) has issued an urgent warning to pet owners as hot temperatures persist.

The country is experiencing unseasonably hot weather of late, with highs in the early-to-mid twenties anticipated throughout next week.

According to met Éireann, today will be dry with plenty of sunshine and just light easterly or variable breezes.

Highest temperatures of 17 to 26 degrees are forecast, warmest across the midlands, west and southwest.

To top off the weekend, Sunday will be another dry day, with lots of sunshine and more high temperatures of 20 to 24 degrees.

The charity is calling on pet owners to be vigilant as the risk of heatstroke from exposure to excessive temperatures can lead to animal deaths.

Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that can develop if an animal becomes too hot, potentially causing seizures, organ damage, internal bleeding and coma.

Dogs are at very high risk when outdoors due to their typically higher rate of movement while playing, a factor which the DSPCA says must be accommodated for by providing proper ventilation while

The DSCPA is urging dog owners to never keep their dogs in a car during these hot days, nor in a conservatory or kennel.

Flat-faced, overweight, giant-breed, thick-coated, very old and very young dogs are most at risk.

The charity offers the following advice to dog owners:

1. Only walk when it is cool, early morning and evening. Do not walk any dog during the hottest hours of the days (12.00pm-4.00pm).
2. Light exercise only. When playing with your dog allow lots of time for breaks in shade, provide water, and allow your dog to cool down.
3. Provide lots of shade and plenty of water.
4. No unnecessary travel. Never leave dogs in cars, even if windows are open; a car will remain too hot for any pet.
5. Be extra cautious with flat-faced, overweight, giant-breed, thick-coated, very old and very young dogs.

Suzanne McGovern, Head of Operations at the DSPCA, said owners must remember their pet in these conditions: “This kind of weather is a lovely change for us, but it can be uncomfortable or even dangerous for our pets.

"It is important that all pet owners are always vigilant and responsible. Plan ahead, ensure your pet can rest in the shade and has access to lots of water. It is important we all enjoy the hot but do so in a fun, responsible and safe way."

Here is a guide to how hot is too hot for your pet:

• 16-19 C Generally safe to exercise at all times of days. Dogs most at risk of heat stroke should only be lightly exercised in the cool parts of the days (early morning, late evening).
• 20-23 C No dog should be exercised rigorously. All exercise should take place during cool parts of the day. Play time should be short and have lots of time to cool down.
• 24-27 C Extreme caution should be taken. Exercise should only be extremely light and take place when the sun has set. Focus on giving your dog cooling treats, toys and plenty of opportunity to spend time in shade.
• 28-31 C Dangerous for all, but life threatening for larger breeds and puppies as well as dogs who are flat-faced or obese. Stay cool and in the shade with lots of water.
• 32 C Heat stroke is a major risk for all.

While 20°C may not seem overly hot, pets – especially dogs – can still struggle in the heat, particularly during exercise or if left in enclosed spaces like cars or conservatories.

If you see an animal in trouble or distress, particularly in a car even if the window is open or in an outdoor area without shade or water, please contact the DSPCA on 01 4994700 or [email protected].