A vet has revealed how to keep your dog cool this summer and warned those who plan to shave their dog during the summer months.
Dr Kirsten Ronngren, has offered her top tips for keeping your furry friends healthy this summer.
The ManyPets pet insurance vet revealed that shaving your dog doesn’t always make it easier for him to handle the heat.
She warned: “Dogs don’t sweat through their skin like humans do, and instead they pant to get rid of the excess heat!
“It’s a common misconception that shaving a dog’s hair helps keep it cool.
“Shaving may have the potential to make it harder for dogs to naturally cool off while putting them at a higher risk for sunburn.”
However, in some cases, it can help avoid trapping heat close to the body.
She added: “As the temperature rises, your dog naturally sheds and their coat thins.
“A trim to reduce excess hair is fine, but regular brushing and bathing is usually enough for most pets.
“If you’re unsure whether your thick-fur pup would benefit from a shave or a trim, talk to your vet.”
The canine expert also revealed that a cooling mat can help prevent them from overheating as well as a shallow paddling pool filled with cold water.
She also recommended buying a dog-friendly SPF to prevent sunburn.
The vet added: “Just like in humans, sun exposure can cause skin problems in pets.
“Applying a pet-friendly sunscreen can help prevent these issues, protecting pets from harmful rays; the most common sunburn areas for dogs are around the face/ears and belly .
“However, be careful not to apply your own SPF to your dog.
“Human sunscreens usually contain zinc oxide or para-aminobenzoic acid, which are dangerous for dogs if consumed.
“A waterproof, odorless sunscreen for dogs with an SPF of 30 is the best choice.”
The vet also added that you need to be careful when walking your dogs, recommending the start and end of the day when the weather is cooler.
Finally, if your dog is showing signs of heat stroke, the vet advised: “If your dog is showing signs of overheating or heat stroke, it is recommended that you pour some cool water over it and run a fan. if possible to help dissipate the heat from his heart.
“It is not recommended to cover your dog during this period with damp towels as this can trap heat.
“Call your vet immediately if your dog shows signs such as excessive panting, increased drooling, lethargy, vomiting/diarrhea, disorientation, brick-red gums, or collapse/loss of consciousness.”