We Brits love it when the sun comes out, but it can be all too easy to forget that our dogs are at risk of sunburn, heat stroke and dehydration.

Jerry Green Dog Rescue is calling for dog owners to be extra cautious in the coming months to make sure their dog remains hydrated, healthy and well during the holiday season.

The charity has compiled some simple summer tips to help people plan ahead and prevent their dogs from unnecessary suffering, so everyone can enjoy the summer.

“Dogs can become seriously ill very quickly if they’re not protected from extreme heat, dehydration and UV rays,” said Rosie Myers, Behaviour Specialist at Jerry Green Dog Rescue.

“We’re all aware that it’s dangerous to leave dogs in cars when it’s hot, but unfortunately this does still happen! It can be fatal in as little as 20 minutes and leaving a car window open slightly makes little or no difference.”

“While we want to reiterate this message to dog owners there are other things to bear in mind too that will keep your dog healthy and happy this summer. We have created a list of doggy do’s and don’ts to remind pet owners of the simple things they can do that will help their dog enjoy the summer months.”

Do
• Take fresh drinking water with you when you’re walking your dog.
• Consider using sunblock on your dog if they have a white or thin coat, your vet can advise the best product
• Avoid walking your dog in the heat of the day; walking early in the morning or in the evening is better.
• Provide a shady resting place for your dog to get away from the heat; give the dog choices.
• Soak a towel in water and place it over the dog’s body to cool him down gradually and repeat, if necessary. If you are worried about your dog, please seek the advice of your vet
• Use a paddling pool to have fun with your dog.
• Give them space, especially with strange children – remember dogs can be less tolerant when they are hot and bothered.
• Be vigilant with people who want to fuss your dog when he/she is resting.
• Ensure your dog is wearing visual identification – it is a legal requirement.
• Abide by countryside code – close gates and keep leads on around livestock and in bird nesting season.
• Respect other dog-walkers and give people space when training their dog.
• Carry toys, poo bags and treats to reward good behaviour.
• Keep your dog on a lead around roads and other dogs with leads.
• Check that your dog’s microchip is up to date – or have your dog microchipped.
• Make sure you have your vet’s details in your mobile phone

Don’t
• Leave your dog in a vehicle at all, even with the window open. You could be putting its life at risk and it only takes 20 minutes for a dog to die in this extreme heat.
• Tie your dog up outside schools or shops; it’s not safe and you cannot protect your dog from strangers

ENDS

Follow us on Twitter @jerrygreendogs
Find us on Facebook: facebook.com/pages/Jerry-Green-Dog-Rescue/
Visit: www.jerrygreendogs.org.uk

Notes to editors:

Jerry Green Dog Rescue was founded in 1961 in Broughton, Lincolnshire and is now one of the UK’s largest dog rescue charities. It has rescue centres in five locations:

• Gilberdyke, East Yorkshire
• Blidworth near Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
• Broughton near Brigg, North Lincolnshire
• Algarkirk near Boston, Lincolnshire
• Thirsk, North Yorkshire

Jerry Green Dog Rescue has a caring ethos which puts the dogs in its care at the centre of everything it does. It also operates a policy whereby prospective adopters are introduced to dogs in a neutral environment away from the kennel, resulting in less stress for the dog and increasing the chances of permanent homes being found.

The adoption process at Jerry Green Dog Rescue involves a number of introductory visits and the rehoming team provide pre and post adoption support to ensure the move to the dog’s new home is as smooth as possible.

The charity receives no Government or National Lottery funding. This means it is dependent on the generosity of public and corporate donors/sponsors.

For media information please contact:
Sarah Howells
Shooting Star PR
01522 528540
sarah@weareshootingstar.co.uk
@shootingstarpr
@sarahhowellspr
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