As extreme temperatures hit Birmingham, dog owners have been urged to use their 'common sense' to protect their pets. The Met Office has issued a rare red weather warning for areas across the West Midlands, and our furry friends will be hit hard.
Birmingham Dogs Home Central Manager Hayley Gee has shared what humans can do to help their pets. She said: “It’s a little bit of common sense! Using me as an example, I’ve changed my routine completely. Normally I walk the dogs later in the morning, but at the moment we go for our walk before the sun comes up, and then they are kept quiet throughout the day.”
Adjusting Walking Routines
Hayley explained that people can get worried when their dogs grow quiet, but she assured this was for the best. “You can keep them quiet with little things to do in the house,” she told BirminghamLive. “I make their breakfast, but I put it in kongs and freeze it. This means their food takes longer, plus the chewing sensation reduces their stress and gives them something to do.”
Avoiding Midday Heat
“The middle of the day is a no-go outdoors unless it’s for the quickest of wee breaks. But when the heat of the day is gone, they can have a dip in a paddling pool. A dog doesn’t have to go for a walk to live a fulfilled life - there are other things you can do.”
Common Misconceptions
Hayley also warned against the common misconception of putting a wet flannel on your dog. “You don’t want to put it directly on them, it’s something you can put on the floor. If it dries, it can be a source of heat. You have to make sure it’s damp and cold all the time, so it’s something you want to monitor.”
Dog owners are encouraged to visit Birmingham Dogs Home for more advice on keeping pets safe during the heatwave.
