The Kennel Club warns Leeds dog owners about hot weather dangers and staycations

While half term might be a first staycation for families with four-legged friends, The Kennel Club has told dog owners not to walk their dogs during the hottest parts of the day.

The organisation has also warned that owners should never leave their dogs in the car, even with the windows open.

A pooch should always have access to water and a shady place, and all planned visits and trips should be dog-friendly.

The practical tips and advise released by The Kennel Club are as follows:

When out walking:

- Walk them early morning or evening and avoid the midday sun. Choose shaded areas to walk in

- Always carry around water and something for them to drink from

- Consider using a walking harness rather than a collar, as collars can press on their airways and stop them cooling down as effectively

When traveling:

- Never leave your dog in the car by themselves

- Make sure your dog has a comfortable and cool spot in the car when travelling

- Make regular stops and ensure your dog has access to water

- Avoid travelling in the hottest parts of the day

- Check all places you want to visit or stay at are dog-friendly

At home:

- Create a shaded space to keep your dog cool

- Give them a paddling pool to splash around in

- Add ice cubes to their water bowls

Nick Sutton, health expert at The Kennel Club said: "It’s getting warmer and whilst we might be enjoying the sunshine, it’s important for owners to remember that dogs aren’t as good at dealing with hot weather as we are.

"When they’re hot, dogs mostly cool down by panting, but sometimes this just isn’t enough.

"As their temperature rises, it can make them very unwell and this can be fatal.

"Many people know that it’s absolutely vital to never leave your dog in a hot car, but around 75 per cent of cases of heatstroke are a result of exercise, with most cases occurring in the summer months.

"Some dogs are more at risk of heatstroke, including overweight dogs and flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs, French Bulldogs and Pugs.

“Knowing the signs of heatstroke and getting your dog to the vets early if they are affected can drastically improve their chance of survival.

"Particularly on hot days, owners should watch out for heavy panting, tiredness or an unwillingness to move as well as dribbling, sickness and signs of upset stomach.

"If you think your dog has heatstroke it’s vital that you take them to the vets and gradually cool them down along the way using water on their skin and fur.

“If you want to take your four-legged friend on a longer adventure away from home, make sure they are safe and comfortable at all times.

"Keep your dog cool, think about when is the best time to exercise them and make sure they have water to drink.

"We urge dog owners to plan their trips carefully and ensure all places they want to visit or stay at are dog-friendly to avoid leaving their dog in a car. If it’s really hot, consider re-scheduling as it might not be safe or pleasant for your four-legged friend.”

More information on planning staycations, travelling safely with your dog and visiting dog-friendly places can be found here.