22/05/2026
It's going to be a hot one, so here's some great advice from Cat The Vet if you're planning to be out and about with your dog this weekend.
Against all expectations, it is going to be a hot Bank Holiday weekend!
Which is wonderful, but we arenโt used to it and neither are our dogs.
So before you head out on a lovely family walk, please remember these few things;
๐ถ Our flat faced and heavy coated breeds are the most vulnerable when it comes to overheating. So if you own one of these breeds please take extra care and maybe stay at home and in the cool.
๐ถ If you do go out aim for a cooler part of the day, take water and plan for regular breaks in the shade.
๐ถ Do not force your dog to exercise with ball play or treats. If we throw something or play with them, they will keep going. They will run beyond what is comfortable for them to please us and have very little sense of self-preservation. It's our job to know what a sensible and safe level of activity is!
๐ถ Learn the early signs of heat stress, which are; excessive panting and not being able to stop and them slowing down or stopping on walks or when they are playing rather than keeping on going.
๐ถ Ice treats and ice water are fine to give your pets! They are not harmful and will be very helpful, especially the cold water, if they start to get too warm.
I hope you and your pets have a lovely break!
For more information on heat stroke, the science behind the treatments and the myths surround it, check out;
Hot Dogs - canine heatstroke education for dog owners
https://heatstroke.dog/
https://www.facebook.com/catthevet/posts/pfbid02uKr2Qi3Y3sngbxXjZ1q2Z3rCL
https://www.facebook.com/profile/100044439036180/search/?q=heat%20strokeB7qLyXoYH4oM1YxLf66TMQ4vWZfNmQd7pNZXt4Hl