Dog Owners Warned As Spring Sunshine Brings Risk Of Heatstroke

Dog owners across Sussex are being urged to take extra care as warmer spring weather increases the risk of heatstroke in pets.

Dogs Trust in Shoreham has issued a warning as temperatures are set to climb to around 25°C in parts of the UK this week.

While many people associate heatstroke with peak summer conditions, experts say even mild spring sunshine can pose serious health risks to dogs — and in some cases, it can be fatal.

According to the charity, around 75% of heatstroke cases in dogs are linked to exercise, with two-thirds occurring after routine walks.

Senior Veterinary Surgeon Charlie Dobson says owners should rethink how and when they exercise their pets during warmer weather.

He said:

“The arrival of warmer weather is a welcome change, but it’s important to remember it can bring real dangers for our dogs.

"Even spring sunshine can cause serious issues, especially for flat-faced breeds or those with underlying health conditions.

“The best thing we can do is avoid walking dogs during the hottest parts of the day, make sure they have plenty of water and shade, and keep a close eye out for early signs of heatstroke.”

Symptoms can include heavy panting, changes in breathing, lethargy, excessive drooling, unsteady movement, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Owners are advised to contact a vet if they are concerned.

Certain dogs are more at risk, including flat-faced breeds such as Pugs, French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs, as well as older, overweight dogs or those with thick coats or existing health issues.

If heatstroke is suspected, owners are urged to act quickly.

Dogs Trust recommends stopping activity immediately, moving the dog to a cool shaded area, offering water and beginning to cool them down using cold water.

The advice is to “cool first, transport second” before taking the animal to a vet.

The charity is also reminding people never to leave dogs in parked cars. On a 22°C day, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise by 11°C in just 10 minutes, creating potentially fatal conditions.

Anyone who sees a dog in distress inside a car is advised to call 999.