Heatstroke

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Prevention is best: treat your pet the same way you would handle a curious toddler. Pet-proof your house and garage by locking anything toxic away.

• never leave your dog in the car unattended
• leaving the windows open is not enough as your pet will still become overheated

Many dog breeds with short noses, like bulldogs, boxers and pugs, don't breathe very well at the best of times and can easily overheat on a hot day. The excessive panting causes the soft palate to swell up and block the airway causing asphyxia.

Treatment

Your pet's temperature will escalate and if it gets too high it will die. Cool it down by hosing it with water or wrapping it in wet towels. Put it in the shade and apply ice cubes or pack to the gums. Leave a fan nearby. Encourage it to drink.

If you pet is shortnosed and overweight never walk it when the weather is hot. Keep it indoors in the shade near a fan. Put lots of ice cubes in a bowl of cold water near the fan to help cool the surrounding air.

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