RSPCA, PDSA Urge Pet Heat Precautions, Recommend SPF 30+ Sunscreen

1 articles · Updated · bbc.co.uk · Jun 22

RSPCA and PDSA said hot weather can quickly put pets at risk of heatstroke, with dog exercise the most common trigger and no single temperature considered safe for walks.
Five seconds on pavement is the RSPCA’s test for whether ground is too hot for paws; if walks are needed, it advises early or late outings, shade and grass, and no running or cycling.
Excessive panting, drooling, collapse, vomiting or seizures can signal heatstroke, and the PDSA says owners should move the animal to shade, pour cooler-than-body-temperature water over it and then contact a vet.
Pet owners were told to provide shade, clean water, damp towels underneath animals, and carefully used cooling mats or paddling pools, while never leaving pets in cars, caravans, sheds or conservatories.
SPF 30 or higher pet-safe waterproof sunscreen is recommended for light-coloured or thin-furred dogs and cats, especially on ears, noses, eyelids and bellies, because human sun creams can contain toxic ingredients.