Pet Safety Alert: Protecting Dogs and Cats During Cork's Heatwave

As Cork swelters in sunshine with temperatures above 27°C forecast for Saturday, pet owners are being urged to take immediate action to protect their furry friends from potentially fatal heat-related illnesses during the city's hottest weekend of the year.

With temperatures soaring well above the 25°C threshold where pet safety becomes a serious concern, veterinary experts are warning that even short exposures to these conditions can prove dangerous for dogs and cats. The combination of direct sunshine and record-breaking temperatures creates perfect conditions for rapid-onset heatstroke in animals.

Critical Temperature Warning

When it's 22°C outside, temperatures can quickly rise to 47°C in cars, conservatories, and outbuildings, which can be deadly. With this weekend's 27-28°C temperatures, these enclosed spaces become death traps within minutes.

Carmel Murray, ISPCA Public Relations Manager, said: "

We all love the summer sunshine, but it is important to plan in advance especially if you are bringing your pet anywhere with you. Dogs don't have sweat glands which makes it difficult for them to stay cool so it is really important that they are not left in a hot car for any length of time as it can be fatal. It's better to avoid walking your dog during intense heat, so early morning or evening walks is best when it's cooler."

The danger extends beyond vehicles. Asphalt can reach temperatures up to 140°F (60°C) in direct sunlight. Cork's pavements along Patrick Street, the South Mall, and popular walking routes like the Marina and Blackrock Castle are likely reaching dangerous temperatures that can burn pets' paw pads within seconds.

The Five-Second Rule

If the ground is too hot to touch with your hand for five seconds, it's too hot for paws! This simple test can prevent serious burns to your pet's feet on Cork's heated streets and footpaths throughout the weekend.

High-Risk Animals

Pets with longer or darker fur and those with flat or pushed-in faces, like pugs or Persian cats, may have extra trouble managing heat. Pets that are older, obese or have certain medical conditions could also face a higher risk of heat stroke.

According to research from the VetCompass Programme at the Royal Veterinary College, Bulldogs are fourteen times more likely to suffer heat-related illness compared to Labrador Retrievers.

Recognising Heatstroke

Pet owners must watch for warning signs including excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, glazed eyes, difficulty breathing, vomiting, and collapse. Symptoms can also include seizures, bloody diarrhoea and vomit along with an elevated body temperature of over 104 degrees.

Emergency Action

If heatstroke is suspected, move your pet to shade immediately, apply cool (not cold) water to their fur, offer small amounts of water, and contact a veterinarian urgently. Stop cooling the animal when the temperature reaches 39.4°C.

Weekend Essential Precautions

Given Cork's record temperatures continuing through Saturday, pets should remain indoors during peak hours (11am-4pm) both days. When temperatures exceed 29°C, limit your dog's outdoor time to 15-20 minutes, especially during peak hours.

For essential outdoor time, Cork pet owners should utilise early morning walks along the Lee Fields or evening strolls through Fitzgerald Park when temperatures drop. The city's many riverside and coastal areas like Cobh and Crosshaven offer some relief, but owners must ensure pets don't drink saltwater and have constant access to fresh water.

Never Leave Pets in Cars

On a 27°C day, the temperature inside a car with the windows slightly open can reach 39°C within 10 minutes, and 49°C after half an hour, which can cause irreparable organ damage or death.

If you spot a pet in distress in a parked car in Cork, note the registration and immediately contact Gardaí on 999 or the National Animal Helpline on 0818 515 515.

Cooling Strategies

Provide constant access to fresh, cold water with ice cubes added during extreme heat. Create shaded areas using tarps or umbrellas, as dog houses trap heat. Feel free to trim longer hair on your dog, but never shave your dog. The layers of dogs' coats protect them from overheating and sunburn.

Consider cooling mats, paddling pools for dogs, or damp towels for pets to lie on. Indoor activities like puzzle toys and gentle play can provide mental stimulation without heat exposure.

Cork-Specific Weekend Considerations

The city's many stone and concrete surfaces retain heat well into the evening, making popular routes like the Marina Walk potentially dangerous even after sunset both Friday and Saturday. Pet owners using Cork's parks should stick to grassed areas rather than paved pathways.

With Saturday's continued hot weather following today's temperatures, Cork veterinary practices are likely to see increased heatstroke cases throughout the weekend.

Prevention remains the only reliable protection for your beloved companion.