Sri Lanka has warm weather year round but the past two months have brought intense heat like never before. Pet owners should take extra care of their dogs on hot days. Remember to make sure your dog plenty of shade and clean drinking water at all times.

Walking dogs before 7am or after 7pm is a good rule to follow on any given day, to prevent heatstroke; avoid exercising your dog altogether if temperatures get very high. If you take your dog in the car, make sure they stay cool during the drive and never leave them unattended, even if the windows are rolled down.

Dogs absorb heat fast and because they do not sweat like humans, cannot expel that heat quickly. Heatstroke can lead to serious complications and even death in just a matter of minutes. Take care of your pet by watching for excessive panting and signs of discomfort.

Act quickly if you think your dog is suffering from heatstroke.

• ·       Place the dog in a cool place with plenty of cool drinking water.
• ·       Use a hose to run cool (not cold) water over the entire body, avoiding ears.
• ·       Place an ice pack on the back of the head and neck.
• Massage legs to revive circulation and reduce shock.