Vet shares key sign something is wrong with your dog
A pet expert is warning people to look out for this, especially during the summer months
An urgent warning has been issued for dog owners as Britain braces for a summer heatwave which may create health issues for our pets. Just like humans, dogs have very specific needs during hot weather and their thick fur makes them especially susceptible to the high temperatures.
Expert advice is given by Sean McCormack, Head Vet and Carolyn Menteith, Certified Behaviourist and Dog Trainer from Tails.com. They draw attention to certain behaviours that indicate your dog could be struggling in excessive heat, reports the Mirror.
According to Carolyn: "Just like us, if a dog isn't enjoying their current diet, the most obvious symptom is that they won't eat it. Or maybe they just don't show the usual enjoyment or glee when you put down their bowl."
She added: "You might even find that they are begging more for 'human food' than usual - as they are craving something far tastier than what you are giving them. A common thing to look out for in the summer is dogs who don't finish their food - especially if only being given one meal a day."
Emphasising the importance of adapting the feeding schedule during warmer periods, she said: "That's often because just like us, a big heavy meal when we are already feeling hot and a bit uncomfortable, just isn't appealing. They still have the same nutritional needs though, so little and often in the summer is often the best feeding mantra - for both our dogs and us!"
Dog lover and vet Sean has come to the rescue with some top tips for keeping your pooch perky in the blistering heat, starting with the crucial advice to keep them hydrated. He suggests scattering several water bowls around your home and topping them up frequently, as well as walking your furry friend only when the sun's rays are less fierce early mornings or late evenings.
When it comes to mealtime modifications, Sean advises feeding your dog in a cooler spot, or even switching up their diet by introducing wet food or moistening dry kibble with broth.
He said: "Switching to wet food or adding water/broth to dry food can increase your dog's water intake, helping them stay hydrated.
"Wet food or frozen treats can also help lower your dog's body temperature and provide relief from the heat. You can easily make frozen treats at home, using dog-safe ingredients like yogurt, fruits, and vegetables. Freeze them in ice cube trays for easy, refreshing snacks.
"If you do plan to incorporate different foods and ingredients into their diet, do so gradually over a period of time, to avoid upsetting their stomach. Mix the new ingredients in with the old food, and gradually increase the proportions as time goes on."
