Keeping your pet cool

Pets can’t tell us when they’re too hot or uncomfortable in their fur coats, so it up to us to keep a close eye.

Leading veterinary charity, PDSA, has some handy hints:

1. Never leave pets in cars, conservatories or caravans even if you think you only be gone for a little while.

2. Try not to exercise pets during the hottest hours of the day.

3. Fly strike is a particular problem for rabbits in the summer. Rabbits need to be checked underneath for at least twice a day for fly eggs.

4 If your pet gets too hot, wrap them in a cool damp towel/cloth, change it regularly and contact your vet as soon as you can.

5. Make sure that fresh, clean water is always available.

PDSA Senior Veterinary Surgeon, Elaine Pendlebury, said: “Always consider that if you are feeling hot, thirsty and in need of shade, then your four-legged friend is likely to be too.”

For more information visit: www.pdsa.org.uk/summerhealth.