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Posted: 9th May 2023

Owners urged to protect pets from heatstroke
Dogs were the most common type of pet seen with heat-related conditions.
BVA warns pet owners "not to be caught off-guard by seemingly cooler months".

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has issued a warning to pet owners, urging them to take precautions to protect pets from heatstroke and other heat-related conditions. It says the mild spring weather may be more dangerous for pets than extreme summer heatwaves.

The warning comes after statistics from the autumn 2022 BSAVA Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey, revealed that more veterinary surgeons saw cases of animals requiring treatment for heat-related conditions in 2018 (66 per cent), compared to 2022 (51 per cent), despite temperatures reaching in excess of 40 degrees Celcius in the summer of 2022.  

Veterinary surgeons suggest this may be attributed to the extensive media coverage during the 2022 heatwave, that raised awareness of the dangers of extreme heat, and saw owners taking appropriate action to protect their pets.

In both years, dogs were the most common type of pet seen, followed by rabbits and cats. The pets were suffering from conditions such as heatstroke, burnt paw pads, sunburn, and breathing difficulties. 

BVA junior vice president Anna Judson said: “These new figures are a stark warning to pet owners not to be caught off guard by the seemingly cooler months of late spring and early summer. We might not be in the midst of a record-breaking heatwave, however, when the sun comes out from behind the clouds, cars, pavements and spaces like conservatories can quickly heat up and pets are at risk of overheating.”

The BVA says that dogs are particularly prone to heat-related illnesses, and struggle to stay cool in high temperatures, with flat-faced breeds such as English or French bulldogs most affected.

Ms Judson added: “Each year, vets across the country report seeing large numbers of cases involving dogs who require treatment for heat-related conditions. Dogs won’t stop enjoying themselves and exercising because it is hot, so owners need to take action to prevent them overheating. This includes making sure pets aren’t walked or exercised in the middle of a hot day or left inside a car or conservatory, even when it is overcast or even for a little while, as ‘not long’ can prove fatal. Early signs of heatstroke in dogs include heavy panting, drooling, restlessness, bright red or very pale gums, and lack of coordination.”



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