Keeping your dog cool

Just like us, the canine members of our families can struggle to cope with the hot weather. While you might be making the most of the summer sunshine to get outdoors and have some fun, it’s important to remember dogs can’t cool themselves down as well as people.

If your dog gets too hot, they could be at risk of heatstroke. Some dogs are more at risk than others. It will depend on their breed, coat, age and health. Contact your vet for advice if you are concerned about how your dog is handling the heat.

We all have trouble sleeping when it’s hot and muggy. Here are some tips that should help keep your dog cool and happy at night:

Heatstroke in dogs happens when they can’t cool themselves down in hot weather, after exercising, or a mix of both. It can come on and can be life-threatening, so it’s important to know the signs and act fast.

Warning signs include:
  

Heavy panting

Tiredness and confusion

Drowsy and uncoordinated behaviour

Excessive drooling

Diarrhoea

Collapse or vomiting
 

For more information about heatstroke in dogs, check out the RSPCA guide.

If you're worried about heatstroke in your dog, take immediate steps to cool them down and ring your vet.

John Lewis Pet Insurance customers can call vetfone™ at any time of day or night for advice.

Get a quote for our comprehensive lifetime Pet Insurance by calling us on 0330 102 2490 or get a quote online. Calls may be recorded or monitored, and charges will vary.

This article is for promotional or information purposes only. You must not rely on it as advice.

John Lewis Finance and John Lewis Insurance are trading names of John Lewis plc. The John Lewis Registered office address is: 171 Victoria Street, London, SW1E 5NN. Registered in England and Wales no. 233462. John Lewis plc is an appointed representative (Financial Conduct Authority number 416011) of Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Ltd. John Lewis Pet Insurance is underwritten by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Ltd (No. 93792). Registered in England and Wales at St. Mark's Court, Chart Way, Horsham, West Sussex, RH12 1XL. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority (Financial Services Register No. 202323).