The dangers of warm weather for pets, particularly in a hot car

THE summer heat can be of danger to pets, in particular to small animals that can die within just 30 minutes in a hot car.
Those particularly at risk of getting heatstroke are small cats and dogs, hamsters, guinea pigs and other small animals.
Many people just do not appreciate how dangerous heat is for small animals.
Even popping into the supermarket for a few minutes could end in tragedy for an animal left in a hot car.
Small animals are very sensitive to heat. They find it very difficult to regulate their body temperature and people need to be aware of the precautions they need to take to protect them.
Dogs and cats also need plenty of ventilation when travelling, so car windows should be wound down to provide enough air and they should be given water at regular intervals. Never allow your dog to have its head out of the window as this can cause damage to the eyes.
Sitting in a traffic jam with the sun beating down on the car can have disastrous consequences for your dog. He or she may seem fine but don’t forget that however hot you feel, they feel even hotter.
A metal car can turn into an oven and if they do not have enough ventilation and water they could die before your journey is over.
Never leave a pet in a car unattended.