The researchers were shocked to discover that the temperature at which heatstroke occurs in dogs is lower than thought. This dispels the belief that dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke when it’s scorching hot.
Dogs who live in London are at greater risk of heatstroke than dogs living elsewhere in the UK. This is according to a new study.
As summer approaches, owners are being warned to look out for early signs of heatstroke, which is more likely in cities due to a “double-whammy” of “concrete cooking effects” and rising global temperatures.
Researchers discovered that older dogs and those with heavier bodies were more likely to become ill from the heat. Flat-faced dogs like bulldogs and pugs are most vulnerable.
The heatstroke risk for dogs living in London was double that found in Yorkshire, and almost double that in the North West and East of England.
Flats and terraced housing are associated with an increased risk of overheating, the study suggests – and a greater percentage of cases in London were triggered by confinement in a hot building.
The Nottingham Trent University and the Royal Veterinary College researchers were surprised to find the average temperature in which dogs became ill from heatstroke was 16. 9C (62. 4F) – much lower than previously thought.
It also busts the myth about dogs only becoming a higher risk for heatstroke in scorching temperatures, the scientists said.
Dan O’Neill is associate professor of companion animal epidemiology, Royal Veterinary College, and coauthor of this paper. He said that the results highlight the double-whammy heatstroke risk dogs in urban areas face: rising temperatures everywhere, combined with concrete cooking effects of living in cities.
“Awareness of these extra risks can help owners take steps to protect their dogs, especially as we approach the summer months. ”
Looking at the specific triggers behind heatstroke events between 2016 and 2018, the researchers found exertion, or exercise, was responsible for 68% of heatstroke cases in London and hot weather 14%.
According to the study, dogs that were confined to a hot building accounted for 8% of cases in London – more than double the wider UK figure of 3%.
Researchers suggest this could be due to a higher proportion of flats than in rural locations, and because the ambient temperature in cities such as London can be about 5C warmer than in the countryside.
Early signs of heatstroke to watch out for
Excessive panting or reddening of the gums or tongue, confusion, unsteadiness and diarrhoea could lead to collapse.
If the dog does not cool down immediately, they should call a veterinarian.
Researchers believe that as the global temperature rises, a better understanding of heatstroke risk factors in dogs is essential to support education.
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