Protect your pet in the sun
As the weather warms up, it's incredibly important to keep your puppies safe in your garden or outdoors.
We've put together a handy guide to help keep your dogs safe in the sunshine.
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Overheating – Heatstroke - sunburn
We can all get hot and bothered in the warmer months, but it is important to remember that puppies and dogs find it far more difficult than us to cool down in high temperatures. With this is mind, aim to keep your dog as cool and as comfortable as possible from the start of a hot day and avoid the midday sun when surface areas are at their hottest.
Keep your dog well hydrated and in the shade where possible and watch out for tell-tale signs that your dog is too hot, such as excessive panting and lethargy.
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Sunburn
This may surprise you, but did you know your dog can get sunburn?
While all dogs can potentially suffer with sunburn, dogs with shorter, thinner coats or those lighter in colour may be at greater risk. As well as being a totally miserable and painful experience for your dog, sunburn can lead to skin cancer.
Paws, noses tummies, and the tips of tails and ears are particularly vulnerable, so it is important to protect these areas against sunburn by using a dog-safe sunblock and by keeping your dog cool in the shade wherever possible.
Signs of sunburn may include redness, itching, flaky or crusty skin and blisters. Severe sunburn must always be checked by a vet.
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Hydration
Giving your puppy and dog plenty to drink on a hot day is an absolute essential.
As well as keeping them hydrated, ensuring their water bowls are regularly replenished is the best way to prevent overheating. Remember – water can evaporate from their bowls in warmer weather. So please keep an eye on it and top up when needed.
How to protect your pet when travelling with you