With the UK set to sizzle in 30C heat this week, a dog owner has shared a stark warning about the dangers of spraying your pet with cold water to cool them down
As we toast to an early onset of summer, it’s important to spare a thought for our furry pals who might find the balmy climate a bit too sizzling. With thermometers set to rocket up to a sweltering 30C this week, the UK finds itself in the grip of an extraordinary heatwave for this time of year.
Pet pooches everywhere are in for a tough time, and dog lovers are being prompted to step up their game to shield their canine companions. Buzzing across social media is one particular piece of advice taking TikTok by storm – and it comes with a twist.
The account by @buddy_the_brown_labrador, showcaser of a stunning chocolate Labrador, has thrown out some summer survival hacks in a TikTok clip that’s snagged over 31,000 appreciative nods.
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According to the owner, blasting your furry mate with cold water could backfire.
“It may seem like the right thing to do,” the owner explains, “but spraying your dog with cold water can actually make them retain more heat. It causes the capillaries under their skin to close, which stops the cooling process.”
Instead, what this savvy pet owner suggests is giving the dogs a little dunk in a paddling pool or a shallow soaker, targeting those vital heat-releasing zones – namely paws and gums.
For those embarking on daily dog-walking duties, the video advises steering clear of the midday furnace. Opt instead for an early jaunt pre-7am or a late-night stroll past 10pm, dodging the day’s peak heat.
Max out the air-con if it’s at hand, making sure your doggie doesn’t wander outside too much throughout the peak heat daytime.
If there’s a chillier spot in your abode, move your mutt there stat.
Also make sure you are offering plenty of fresh water, shade, and regular brushing to remove insulating fur to help combat the heat.
TikTok pet owners have thanked the original poster after admitting they have been unknowingly exposing their beloved animals to harm.
One concerned pet parent commented: “Omg I had no idea. We always put our dog in our unheated pool thinking we were helping. Thank you for this.”
Another chimed in with a heartfelt: “Very important information. Thank you for sharing.”
The RSPCA has singled out certain dogs as most vulnerable in a heatwave – those in poor health, those adorable flat-faced pooches like pugs and bulldogs, and thick-furred breeds such as German Shepherds.
This charity is prompting pet parents to keep pets safe by choosing shaded walk routes and carrying a portable water bottle to offer drinks at quarter-hour intervals.
And remember, if the pavement’s scorching, your pawed pal would much prefer a grassy stroll.
