Warm and sunny weather is finally here for may parts of Scotland, with the good spell being joyous news for many people.
You might be thinking about taking advantage of the scorching temperatures and take a trip somewhere with the whole family, including any furry friends you may have.
Dogs need extra care during warmer weather to ensure that they stay cool, and this includes when they're on a car journey. It's common knowledge that you should never leave your dog in the car when it's parked on a hot day, but there are ways to make them more comfortable when you're actually on the move too.
Even when in the car for a short time, the nation’s dogs could endure in-car temperatures of up to 47C within just 10 minutes – hotter than Furnace Creek, Death Valley – as cars act like a greenhouse and trap the suns heat.
To help keep canines cool, Škoda has collaborated with dog behaviourist and nutritionist Anna Webb, who has 20 years of experience, to share her top tips.
The expert has even helped to create a playlist of calming songs that are ideal for playing while your dog is in the car.
She said: "During a time where we will be making the most of the warmer weather, it’s important to remember that we share our homes and our cars with our pets, so we must keep their needs in mind.
"It can take under an hour for a dog to be pushed to the brink by extreme heat, and that time comes around so much faster when they are in a warm car. Pet owners need to be aware of the dangers so they can help protect their pups."
Never leave dogs in cars
This is a well-known bit of advice, but dogs shouldn't ever be kept in the car when it's not moving.
Anna said: "Never leave your dog in a stationary car, even with the windows open, or in the shade, as the car turns into a greenhouse. When it’s 22C outside in a stationary vehicle, without air conditioning, temperatures ‘in car’ can reach 47C in fewer than 10 minutes."
Train dogs before taking car journeys
Some preparation is all you need to ensure your furry friend is comfortable when they're in the car.
Anna said: "De-sensitise your dog to travelling in the car before any long journey, but especially when it’s hot. Signs that your dog is feeling the heat (or going Hyperthermic) will be excessive panting, drooling and restlessness. A dog that’s relaxed in the car will be less likely to feel hot. Raised cortisol levels increase a dog’s body temperature and thirst."
Use cooling mats
These are really useful for helping your pups to stay cool in their carriers, but it's best to make sure they're able to get used to them.
Anna explained: Cooling vests and mats work to keep your dog’s underbelly nice and chilled. Make sure your dog is ‘carrier-trained’ for maximum comfort. Carriers should be well-ventilated and spacious enough for your pooch to turn around.
"Cooling vests should be soaked in cold water before you put them on your pet. The simple process of evaporation from the heat of the dog dries the vest, cooling them down. They do need to be re-dampened — maybe combine this with a comfort break for the dog (or for you) at the services."
Your dog may not be keen on the mats at first, so some light training beforehand is useful.
Anna continued: "Use tasty treats to help train your dog to enjoy their cooling accessories in their carrier (or seat belt) indoors first. Make the acclimatising sessions very short and always finish on a positive note. Your dog could get stressed or bored in the car and chew the cooling mat and/or the vest — becoming more stressed and even hotter."
Take regular breaks
If you're headed to the beach, you probably want to get there in time to enjoy a full day out in the sun - but regular breaks are important for your dog's wellbeing.
Anna explained: "Take regular comfort breaks in the shade so your dog keeps cool. Avoid tarmac and concrete paths — both absorb heat and can burn bare paw-pads. Be mindful to park your car in a shady spot and think of windscreen sun shades to help keep your car cool."
Don't drive during the warmest hours
The sun reaches its highest point during the hours of 11am-3pm most days, so you should try to plan your journeys with a pet outside of these hours.
Anna clarified: "In summer months, travel in the cooler times of the day - early morning or evening. Make sure your car is roadworthy to minimise concerns of breaking down in the heat."
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