It’s a common mistake (stock) (Image: Getty)
A vet has issued an urgent warning to dog owners during the UK heatwave, revealing that one common mistake people make while attempting to cool their pets down could actually be making matters considerably worse.
The expert, known online as Things Can Only Get Vetter, explained that dangerous myths surrounding heatstroke treatment continue to circulate every summer – despite the potentially fatal consequences.
In a video posted online, the vet said: “These heatstroke treatment mistakes kill dogs every summer.”
According to the expert, one of the most widespread misconceptions owners still believe is that dogs should only be cooled using tepid or room-temperature water. However, the vet insisted that such advice is outdated.
Instead, they explained that owners should begin cooling their dog immediately using cold water before transporting them to the vet.
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The vet said: “The risk factor for internal organ damage and death is the amount of time the dog spends overheated.”
As a result, they stressed that administering first aid at home is absolutely vital. For younger dogs, the expert explained that full immersion in cold water can help rapidly bring down body temperature.
Older dogs, meanwhile, should be hosed down or have cold water poured over them instead.
The vet explained that the most critical factor is helping cold water evaporate from the dog’s coat, as this draws out heat far more effectively.
They also advised using a fan wherever possible to accelerate the cooling process. “A breeze is gonna help take that evaporating water away,” they explained.
Yet it was another widely-used heatwave remedy that prompted the most serious warning.
The vet urged owners to stop covering overheated dogs in cold wet towels, cautioning that doing so can actually trap heat against the body rather than allowing it to escape.
They said: “That creates an insulating layer. It traps all the heat. It can make things far worse.”
Once owners have begun cooling their dog down, the expert emphasised that the next step should always be seeking emergency veterinary treatment as swiftly as possible.
Heatstroke in dogs can rapidly become life-threatening, even with prompt treatment.
The vet cautioned that the condition carries a mortality rate of between 34 and 64 percent.
At the vets, overheated dogs can receive fluids and emergency care specifically aimed at reducing the risk of organ failure and other serious complications.
Responding to the post, one owner commented: “At 70k, my dogs do not go out before 11pm at night for walks in the warmer months. Thankfully, we live in an old stone house so it’s very cool in the heat.”
A second user wrote: “Massive thank you for providing this life saving advice! We really appreciate you sharing our work and helping owners protect their pets.”
A third user added: “Been trying to spread this for two years now. Thank you.”