As temperatures and UV levels rise across Ireland this week, Village Vets is urging pet owners to take extra precautions to protect their pets from heat stroke, dehydration and sunburn.
While many people know the dangers of dogs overheating, fewer realise that pets can also suffer from painful sunburn, particularly those with light-coloured, thin or hairless coats.
Heat stroke is a veterinary emergency that can develop incredibly quickly and, without immediate treatment, can become fatal.
Why hot weather is dangerous for pets
Unlike people, dogs cannot cool themselves efficiently by sweating. They rely mainly on panting to regulate their body temperature, making them particularly vulnerable when temperatures rise.
Even what feels like a short or gentle walk can become dangerous during warm weather, especially for:
- Puppies
- Senior pets
- Overweight animals
- Flat-faced (brachycephalic) breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs
- Pets with underlying health conditions
Pets can get sunburn too
Many owners are surprised to learn that dogs can suffer from sunburn, even if they have fur.
Pets most at risk include:
- Hairless breeds
- White or light-coloured dogs
- Dogs with thin coats
How to protect pets from sunburn
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure between 10am and 4pm
- Always provide access to shade
- Keep pets indoors during the hottest part of the day where possible
- Speak to your vet about using a pet-safe sunscreen on vulnerable areas
Never use human sunscreen on pets, as ingredients such as zinc oxide and certain chemical UV filters can be toxic if licked or swallowed.
Signs of sunburn include:
- Red or pink skin
- Dry or flaky patches
- Cracked skin on the nose or ears
- Pain when touched
- Blistering in severe cases
If you suspect your pet has suffered more than a mild sunburn, contact your veterinary practice for advice.
Keep your pet safe during hot weather
Our veterinary teams recommend:
- Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening
- Always provide fresh, cool drinking water
- Ensure pets have access to shade
- Keep pets indoors during the hottest hours where possible
- Use cooling mats, damp towels or fans to help them stay comfortable
- Avoid vigorous exercise, including chasing balls or running
- Check pavements before every walk. If it’s too hot to hold the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
- Never leave a pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes
Know the signs of heat stroke
Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency.
Watch for:
- Heavy panting
- Excessive drooling
- Lethargy or weakness
- Difficulty breathing
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Confusion or disorientation
- Collapse
If you suspect heat stroke:
- Move your pet to a cool, shaded area immediately.
- Offer small amounts of cool drinking water.
- Apply cool (not ice-cold) water to their body.
- Contact your nearest veterinary practice immediately.
Prompt veterinary treatment can save lives.
A message from Hannah Doherty, Hospital Manager at Village Vets Ashbourne 24-Hour Hospital
“We have seen an influx of pets affected by heat-related illness, and unfortunately heat stroke can become life-threatening in a very short space of time. Many owners don’t realise how quickly a routine walk can become dangerous once temperatures begin to climb.
We’re also keen to remind owners that pets can suffer from sunburn, particularly those with light-coloured, thin or hairless coats. Sunburn isn’t just painful, it can lead to long-term skin damage if left untreated.
If it’s too hot for you, it’s probably too hot for your dog. Our advice is simple: skip the daytime walk and head out early in the morning or later in the evening instead. Missing one walk won’t harm your dog, but heat stroke can.”
Help spread the message
With another spell of warm weather expected, we’re asking pet owners to share this advice with friends, family and fellow pet lovers.
A little extra care can prevent a life-threatening emergency and help keep pets safe all summer long.
If you’re concerned about your pet, contact your nearest Village Vets practice for advice.
