Concerns for dogs in warm weather

GSPCA are warning that dogs left in cars could suffer heatstroke

Dog-owners are being urged not to leave their pets in the car or to walk them during the hottest part of the day.

The warning from Guernsey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA) comes as a heatwave affects large parts of the UK.

The Channel Island charity said it was expecting to receive reports from the public of dogs locked in cars, dogs being walked on hot pavements, animals in direct sunlight and wildlife in need.

GSPCA manager Steve Byrne said there were simple things islanders could do to ensure it is safe to take pets outside.

'Stop and think'

He advised avoiding walking dogs at the hottest part of the day and testing the heat of the pavement with the back of a hand for seven seconds. Dogs should be walked on cooler grass, ideally in shaded areas, early in the morning or evening, he said.

"We urge all pet owners to stop and think and ensure that their pet is not put in a life-threatening situation," Mr Byrne added.

"If your dog is left in the car, even if parked in the shade as the sun moves [it] could put them at a real risk of heat exhaustion, which can lead to death."

The GSPCA said when it is 22°C (72°F) outside, the temperature inside a car can soar to 47°C (117°F) within 60 minutes.

It added a dog inside a hot car could suffer heat stroke and said the signs to look out for included heavy panting, profuse salivation, lethargy and lack of co-ordination. A vet should be called to lower the dog's body temperature slowly.

Lorna Chadwick, GSPCA animal welfare manager, said: "We do not want to see animals' lives put in danger due to the hot weather and if anyone is concerned about a dog in a hot car or animal at risk please call us on 01481 25726."