A vet with over 30 years experience has issued vital advice
A vet with over three decades of experience has issued a plea to dog owners to dress their pets in a bandana during heatwaves before taking them for walks.
The seasoned professional, known on social media as @pet_health_daily, expressed his frustration at repeatedly witnessing preventable issues among pets, stating: “I’m done watching simple problems turn into big ones.”
He then highlighted the risks associated with walking dogs in extreme heat, pointing out that canines often fail to exhibit signs of distress until it’s too late, reports the Express. With Scotland to swelter in 30C heat this weekend, now is the time to listen to his advice.
Offering a practical solution, he advised: “Soak a bandana in cold water, ring it out and tie it loosely around their neck before heading out. It acts like a cooling collar helping regulate their body temperature during walks or playtime.”
But the advice didn’t stop there; addressing digestive issues in dogs, such as loose stools or scooting, he suggested a simple home remedy: “You don’t need expensive gut meds, just add a spoon of plain canned pumpkin to their meals. It’s rich in fibre and gently firms up digestion within days.”
For those dealing with their dogs’ red, itchy paws, he recommended a natural alternative to medication or creams by using diluted apple cider vinegar.
He explained its benefits: “It kills yeast, balances skin pH and clears up flare ups without chemicals.”
Reacting to his advice, one appreciative dog owner commented on his post, saying: “Thank you, I’ll definitely use the bandana and broth in near future..”
Another user enquired: “Do you put the apple cider vinegar on their paws directly?”.
In response, one user said: “One part apple, one part water in a bowl and soak their paws for one to five minutes, then wipe it off with a towel, don’t wash it off afterwards.”
Whilst this DIY approach may prove effective for some dog owners, we’d recommend consulting a veterinarian instead. They can provide expert guidance – and home remedies aren’t always the most suitable solution.
How hot is too hot to walk your dog?
“There isn’t one temperature that’s too hot for dogs, but generally temperatures over 20 degrees celsius can put dogs at higher risk of heatstroke, especially during strenuous exercise.
“Dogs with underlying conditions – such as obesity – are at risk even in temperatures cooler than this.
“Depending on your dog’s breed, coat, age and whether they are brachycephalic, they may not tolerate warm weather. Dogs’ paw pads can also burn on hot pavements.
“As a general rule if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. To avoid the peak of the heat, walk them in the early morning, preferably in shady woodland or forest. Make sure to bring fresh water and a bowl, and offer your dog plenty of breaks.
“While exercise is important for dogs, it is not necessary in extreme heat. All dogs should be kept indoors in a cool room during during periods of very hot weather.
“If your dog is prone to getting bored, refresh their basic training or offer them a tasty treat puzzle to keep them stimulated.”
