An unconventional ice cream van is making its rounds across the United Kingdom, but instead of catering to human appetites, this van is dedicated to keeping furry friends refreshed. Its mission? To provide frozen treats tailored for dogs, all while journeying through various towns and cities in the UK. The initiative aims to assist not just the pets themselves, but their owners as well, as they brace for an impending heatwave rumored to strike later this month.
With its current route spanning ten locations including Bristol, Great Yarmouth, and Derby, the dog-friendly ice cream van, orchestrated by Pets at Home, dispenses complimentary frozen yoghurt formulated for canine consumption. Aboard the heritage van, experts are at hand to equip owners with knowledge about optimal methods to ensure their cherished companions remain cool and at ease in the rising temperatures.
Research results indicate that 63 percent of dog owners harbor concerns about their four-legged companions succumbing to overheating, yet a notable 41 percent remain unsure about the appropriate measures to mitigate heat-related distress.
In their endeavors to keep their furry friends cool, 35 percent of respondents opt for water-based activities such as swimming, while 21 percent administer cold water applications to their pets’ heads, paws, and toes—practices advised against by pet experts.
An authority figure at Pets at Home, the organization that conducted a study encompassing 2,000 dog owners, remarked, “Our affection for our pets drives our desire to do right by them. However, this study brings to light the uncertainty harbored by many owners regarding the most effective methods to keep their dogs comfortably cool throughout the sweltering summer months.”
Dogs diverge from humans in their cooling mechanisms; instead of sweating, they regulate their temperature through panting. Nonetheless, particularly hot days might necessitate supplementary assistance to lower their body temperature and deter overheating. The specialist advised, “The ideal approach involves ensuring they have cooling pads and shaded retreats, in addition to regular consumption of chilled water. Employing ice for cooling is acceptable.”
He further underscored the importance of multifaceted support for pet owners in safeguarding their companions’ well-being during the summer months, expressing enthusiasm to encounter individuals on the ice cream van journey, extending not only treats but also invaluable guidance.
Findings from the research also shed light on the challenge faced by many owners in identifying signs of canine overheating, with 25 percent admitting their inability to recognize such symptoms. Only 38 percent accurately identified “confusion” as a warning sign, while gastric discomfort (31 percent) and vividly colored or pale gums (19 percent) were also pinpointed as pivotal indicators of heatstroke.
Conversely, a silver lining emerges as many owners exhibit familiarity with techniques to preserve their dogs’ comfort. A considerable 70 percent ensure their pets remain away from excessively hot spaces like conservatories, while 60 percent provide cooling mats for their furry companions to repose upon.
As the mercury rises, 78 percent of respondents prefer to walk their four-legged companions either early in the morning or late in the evening, circumventing the peak temperatures of the day. Additionally, 65 percent opt for shaded routes to safeguard their pets’ paws from scorching pavements.
On average, dog owners curtail regular strolls once temperatures reach 24°C, according to insights from OnePoll.com research.
For car trips with their pets, 56 percent of respondents opt for the cooler hours of the day, with 55 percent factoring in additional breaks to ensure their pets remain hydrated.
Despite heightened health concerns, 57 percent of individuals limit their pets’ park visits in warmer weather, with a mere 19 percent utilizing pet-friendly sunscreen.
To aid pet owners in maintaining their companions’ comfort during the sweltering conditions, here are five essential tips:
Recognize Heatstroke Symptoms
Rapid progression characterizes heatstroke, underlining the importance of recognizing its signs, including labored breathing or panting, lethargy, and unusual behavior.
Ensure Hydration
Ice cubes prove efficacious in hydrating pets. On hot days, consider adding ice cubes to their water bowl, ensuring they are of an appropriate size and monitoring their consumption.
Create Shelter
If embarking on an outing, contemplate bringing along a windbreak or pop-up tent to provide a shaded resting spot for your pet, shielding them from direct sunlight. Ensure an ample supply of fresh water.
Beware of Hot Surfaces
Before allowing your pet to traverse any surface, verify its temperature with the back of your hand. Prioritize natural grassy areas, as artificia
