Constant access to fresh, cool water is key to keeping your dog cool during the heat
All dogs can suffer from the heat, but greyhounds are one of the ‘at-risk’ breeds. This is due to their low body fat and a lack of hair, which leaves them without the insulation that other breeds benefit from in hot and cold weathers.
Greyhounds are four times more at risk when the temperatures reach over 20 degrees Celsius that other breeds, but the current high temperatures cause a high risk for all breeds.
Read on to find out how to spot the signs of heat exhaustion and heatstroke in your dog and some simple steps to mitigate the risk of this happening…
Spot the signs
There are some factors that can increase the risk of your dog suffering during hot weather, such as underlying health conditions or being overweight (this is particularly true for greyhounds).
However, it can happen simply due to over-exertion or playing in the garden, so it’s important to know the signs.
If your dog begins suffering with heat exhaustion, symptoms typically include:
Excessive panting
Skin on the inside of the ears will be red and hot
Weakness
Wobbliness
Fainting spells
If the animal then moves past to regulate their own temperature, this can lead to heatstroke, where their core temperature is at dangerous levels - this can be life-threatening without immediate management and treatment.
Key signs of heatstroke in dogs are:
Faster/Heavier panting
Agitation
Vocalising
Excessively thirsty
Excessively drooling
Glassy eyes
Weakness and collapse
High heart rate
Seizures
Unconsciousness
Dark red or purple gums and tongue
What to do if your dog is overheating
If you suspect your dog has overheated, you need to cool them down by moving them inside - try getting them to lie on a cool towel or a cool bandana can also help.
Although cool coats are good in concept, in this situation they may not help, as by putting something over their back you could inadvertently trap the heat to their body.
Please note:
If you are seriously concerned, or you believe your dog has developed heatstroke, you will need to urgently get them to the nearest vet.
Do not submerge your dog in water to cool them down as this can send them into shock.
If you believe your dog is in danger of heatstroke, it is better to be over cautious than to delay going to the vet.
Prevention is better than cure
Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to help keep your dog cool during the heat and reduce the risk of heat exhaustion and heatstroke - check out these six simple steps below…
Do not walk your greyhound if it’s over 20 degrees Celsius (Tip: If you cannot hold your hand to the road for more than five seconds, it is too hot for your dog). If the temperature allows, walk your dog during the early morning or evening.
Limit outdoor time, and keep an eye on any play or “zoomies” to prevent overheating. Don't take them to enclosed rental fields for off-lead running or play.
If your dog is in the garden, make sure they have plenty of shade and provide constant access to fresh cool water. A paddling pool is often appreciated (though not always, you may get glared at!)
You could turn on a fan and point it at their bed
Offer them frozen treats such as stuffed Kongs, yoghurt or ice cubes - however, be careful if the dog is already very warm as this can send them into shock.
Additionally, cool mats and cool coats are worth the money, especially for at-risk breeds like greyhounds.
Thank you for reading, and we hope this helps. :)