‘Fit and healthy’ dog dies of heatstroke after being taken for a walk in Britain’s hot weather

A warning has been issued to pet owners not to let their pets overheat after a dog died while being taken for a walk in the summer sun. 

The RSPCA has warned dog owners to pay mind to their pets in the hot temperatures following the death of the ‘fit and healthy’ five-year-old pooch in north west England.

Over the past five days, the weather has soared past the 86F (30C) mark across the UK. 

The RSPCA has warned dog owners to pay mind to their pets in the hot temperatures

The RSPCA had 729 calls about animals being left in hot environments between Monday and Thursday.

RSPCA Altrincham Cheshire said: ‘This morning we were informed a local dog died of heat stroke after being taken on a walk at 9am when the temperature was 21 degrees.

‘The dog was otherwise fit and healthy. 

‘Despite lots of warnings about the heat we still see dogs being walked to the shops, on the school run, or as soon as owners get in from work.

‘We do understand the crucial nature of walking your dog, however please bear in mind that walking in high temperatures can cause serious and irreversible damage, and in some cases death.

‘Yesterday the highest temperature for the day was at 4pm but this is when most of the dogs we spotted were out and about.

‘It does not matter if your dog is white, young, not a bull breed or ‘used to the heat’. Please be mindful of its needs.’

Those looking out for the signs of heatstroke for their pets should watch out for dogs panting excessively, staggering or in a stupor or having seizures.

They also might have a high body temperature, the tongue could be dark or bright red, sticky or dry gums or there could be bloody diarrhoea and vomiting.

The RSPCA had 729 calls about animals being left in hot environments between Monday and Thursday

The RSPCA advise that any dogs that may be suffering from heatstroke, should be taken to a cool shaded area and a vet should be called immediately.

To bring a dog’s temperature down gradually the charity also advises to douse them in cool, not cold, water.

It is also suggested to give them a little to drink until the dogs breathing begins to settle.

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