Dog owners urged to keep pets cool at night
As the UK prepares for warm temperatures this weekend, dog owners are being advised on how to keep their furry friends cool as they sleep.
Sleep experts at WinstonsBeds.com have shared five ways to ensure dogs don't overheat during the night.
Dogs generally have a higher body temperature than humans and the heat can cause them some serious discomfort and can be a threat to their health. While many dog owners will be conscious of keeping their dogs cool in the day, they should also be cautious during the night to prevent their pooches from experiencing overheating.
Rebecca Swain, mattress expert at WinstonsBeds said: "Dogs have a higher body temperature than humans and the warm weather can cause them a lot of discomfort. It's really important to do what you can to try and keep your four legged friend cool at night time when they're asleep.
"When temperatures are high, let your dog sleep elsewhere in your home. Opt for a cooler room with hard flooring or tiles as opposed to carpet. If you find that most rooms in your house are warm then do what you can to cool down your dog's sleeping area. This could be investing in a cooling mat or preparing the room before bed by opening the windows in the evening and drawing any curtains or blinds in the day to keep the sun out.
"It's important to make sure you're keeping your dog cool throughout the day so their body temperature is regulated before bed. Keep them well-hydrated and out of the sun as much as possible."
How to keep dogs cool while sleeping:
-
Find a cool location
If your dog's usual bed is in a room that is too warm then it's worth letting them sleep elsewhere where it's a bit cooler. This could be on tiled floors or just the coolest room in your house. Owners who usually sleep with their dogs in the bed may want to refrain from doing so when it's warm as they'll get far too hot.
-
Prepare the room before bed
It's a good idea to cool down the room your dog will be sleeping in as much as you can. Close any curtains and blinds and open the window in the evenings when the air outside is cool.
-
Use a cooling mat
Cooling mats are a great way to keep your pooch cool. The pressure from your dog will activate the gel within the mat which will absorb body heat and provide some relief from the heat.
-
Leave out a fresh supply of water
Make sure you leave out a fresh supply of water so your dog has access to some throughout the night. You may want to leave out multiple water bowls dotted around the home so they have easy access to it. Cooling bowls also keep water cool for several hours.
-
Keep your dog cool in the day
Regulating your dog's body temperature in the day will help keep them cool before bed time. Keep dogs in the shade, avoid walks if it's too hot, ensure they are well hydrated and use fans and air conditioning units to keep them cool.
