8:00am Saturday 4th July 2009
DOG owners in Swindon have been warned to take special care of their pets as temperatures soar this summer.
Alison Waine, Swindon Council’s environmental protection officer for animals, said dogs can become irritable during the hot summer months, and this can sometimes lead to them behaving aggressively.
She said: “We have received a number of complaints about dogs biting people and other dogs, and we believe the hot weather is partly responsible.
“Even a beloved family pet can act differently, so I would urge dog owners to take the appropriate steps to ensure their dog is happy in the heat.”
The council is urging dog owners not to let children pester their pet to play games or have hugs and to ensure there is a quiet, cool place for dogs to retreat to.
Other advice included not leaving dogs in conservatories or sheds and giving pets regular drinks during walks.
The RSPCA is investigating after two German Shepherd police dogs were found dead in a car outside Nottingham police headquarters on Tuesday, one of the hottest days of the year.
For more information about dogs, call the council’s animals’ officer on (01793) 466068.
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