Dog owners urged to keep pets away from 1 danger in heat

In a TikTok alert shared with his audience, Jack revealed that artificial turf can become significantly hotter than natural grass throughout warm weather – presenting a genuine threat to dogs resting or moving across it. He said: “Artificial grass can be 10 to 20 degrees Celsius hotter than normal turf.”

According to the trainer, some artificial grass surfaces have even reached temperatures as high as 93 degrees in testing because the material is essentially made from plastic. Jack cautioned that, while dogs may relish sprawling out on warm artificial grass, owners ought to think about limiting access during the warmest periods of the day to prevent overheating and burns.

The alert arrives as Animal Friends Pet Insurance revealed that treatment for sunstroke in dogs cost owners more than £400 on average last year. Specialists say particular breeds – including bull breeds, terriers and labradors – are especially susceptible during hot weather. Dr Webster highlighted that dogs find it difficult to regulate their body temperature due to the fact they can only perspire through their paws.

Rather than sweating, they depend on panting to keep themselves cool — something that becomes significantly more challenging as the surrounding air temperature climbs. He said: “Their fur coats add to this problem by retaining heat and preventing heat loss.”

According to the expert, dogs face the greatest risk of sunstroke while exercising or sitting in direct sunlight during warmer periods. Tell-tale warning signs include excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, shaking, and bright red gums.

Owners are strongly advised to act without delay should their pet display any of these symptoms, moving them into a shaded area and placing cool, damp towels over the neck, armpits and hind legs.

Dr Webster also cautioned owners against applying ice to an overheating dog, as doing so can send the animal into shock. Instead, pets should be given water gradually while owners seek professional veterinary assistance as swiftly as possible.

Experts caution that once temperatures reach 24 degrees, sunstroke becomes a genuine threat to dogs, while 28 degrees can already prove dangerous for breeds of all kinds.