Beware heat stroke danger of a hot dog

My Old English sheepdog is nine months old and has his first summer this year. What are the main hazards to be aware of?

- DR DAVID GRANT

There are some serious hazards, but I would emphasise that, with foresight, all are treatable or preventable. An obvious one is heatstroke, and not just dogs left in cars.

The majority I have seen were dogs out for a walk in the midday sun on warm days. This is particularly dangerous for flat-faced dogs, but also dogs like yours with thick coats.

Add to this the exuberant nature of Old English sheepdogs racing about. There is very little warning of an impending heat stroke panting excessively, drooling and collapse.

Sunburn on hairless places, such as the nose, ears and belly, and burns on footpads due to very hot pavements are also possible. The best advice is for walks only in the early morning and evening on hot days. Especially avoid the midday sun and, of course, leaving a dog unattended in a car at any time, even with windows open.