As the days grow longer and the barbecues emerge from their winter slumber, it’s time to look forward to the summer months ahead. We are spoilt for choice when it comes to dog walking spots across the county. So here is your essential guide to enjoying local attractions while keeping your dog safe and cool.

Heatstroke in Dogs

This is an all to common and fatal condition that dogs can develop in minutes. Fortunately, it is very easy to prevent.

• Ensure your dog always has access to clean drinking water. There are plenty of adapted bottles on the market which make it easy to take water for your dog to drink while out walking.
• Ideally, dogs should be walked during the cooler parts of the day. If you must walk your dog during the hottest part of the day, keep exercise to a minimum and avoid tarmacked surfaces.
• Never leave your dog alone in the car – even with the window open!
• As an extra treat, you can freeze ice – cubes with your dogs’ favourite food inside. Or if you have a Kong, these can also be filled and frozen.

If you see signs of heatstroke, act immediately as the damage can be very difficult to reverse. If you see your dog collapse, dribble or pant excessively then act quickly to get them to a cool place. If you have water available wet their coat and contact your vet as soon as possible.

So, we’re all prepared to make the most out of those long summer days – but where should you go?