Our pets need some additional help to keep cool in the heat, this is because canines have a very limited ability to regulate their own temperature.
They do not sweat like humans – only perspiring a small amount through the pads on their paws, with their often thick fur coats meaning their core temperature can rise quickly in high temperatures.
Glenn Ford runs the BARN animal rescue in Newtownards where they look after over 30 dogs and 20 cats.
He said he has noticed the animals are very lethargic in the warmer weather.
“Some of the dogs have got thick coats or double coats, so you have to keep an eye on them all the time to make sure they have plenty of water, clean fresh water.
“The main thing to watch or what you need to be careful with is if they get too lethargic or start showing the signs of heat stroke or, dehydration. That’s when you’ve got a problem,” he added.
Ford said that if this does happen, it is important to take steps to cool them down.
“People sometimes tend to think, throw a bucket of water around them or something like that, it’s not a good idea.”
He said the best thing to do is have a wet area that they can lie on themselves.
Ford also advised people not to take their dog out for a walk if it’s too warm as it risks the animals overheating, getting sunstroke or heatstroke, or burning their paws on concrete.
“Watch out for signs of panting, bright red gums or tongue, heavy breathing,” he added.
“Worst case scenario the dog might get wobbly walking or fall over.”
“If you do reach that stage you definitely need to look at getting your animal to the vet for treatment.
“It can be fatal, that’s how bad it is”.