ITV's Dr Scott Miller has shared a low-cost tip for dog owners to help their pets stay hydrated during the current heatwave. The UK has seen temperatures reach 37.7C this year, with experts warning conditions could exceed 30C again later in the summer.
60p Sardine Water Hack
Speaking on ITV, Dr Miller highlighted a technique he found on Instagram from a nutritionist named Gaia, who posts under the handle DAFY (Dog Advice For You). The method involves adding a teaspoon of sardine water to a dog's water bowl or mixing it into a water bottle before pouring it into the bowl.
Dr Miller said: "Poor animals they are struggling, it's just so hot for them, just because they're not used to it…This first story is all about trying to just spend 60p to keep your dog cool." He explained that the sardine water encourages dogs to drink more, which is crucial as they lose moisture through panting to cool down. He added: "I'm seeing a lot of dehydrated pets coming into the practice, particularly older animals, they're really struggling in this heat."
Alternative Chicken Stock Ice Cubes
Dr Miller also shared his own version of the hack for his dog Mango. He makes ice cubes from chicken stock, saying: "Bit of electrolytes, bit of taste, get's them to drink, happy days."
Pavement Test for Dog Walks
Earlier this year, Vets Now advised dog owners to perform a seven-second pavement test before walking their dogs. They said: "Dogs' paws can be just as sensitive as humans' feet. That means they're equally as likely to get burnt walking on a hot surface as their owner would be." The test involves placing the back of the hand on the pavement for seven seconds; if it's too hot to hold, it's too hot to walk a dog.
