Hot dogs: summer threats to our beloved pets

Direct Line Pet Insurance calls on pet owners to take extra measures to keep their pets safe in the sun

Dogs and cats love basking in the sunshine, but Direct Line Pet Insurance warns that  summer can also be hazardous for our furry friends.

Skin allergies, for example, often flare up during summer months as pets spend more time outdoors in grass, which can aggravate existing conditions. With an average claim cost of £6681, having inadequate insurance can be costly.

From overexertion in the heat to being left in a car unattended, heat stroke and dehydration are common problems for pets during warmer months which can have potentially fatal consequences. Analysis of claims data by the insurer highlights that in some cases, the claim cost for heat stroke amounts to more than £3,500, with an average cost of £444.

Table One: Most common summer conditions and the average claim cost

Source: Direct Line 2014

Madeline Pike, veterinary nurse at Direct Line Pet Insurance, says:“Every year, as soon as the weather warms up, we see an increase in claims for summer related incidents. Summer can cause significant distress to our beloved pets but many of these ailments are both preventable and treatable.”

“Ask your vet whether your dog needs to wear sun cream and what type you should use. If they have thin or fair fur, they can be more susceptible to sunburn, just like humans. Keep an eye on your dog when outdoors in strong sun and try to avoid long grass. Make sure to wash their toys if they are left outside and discard food left in their bowls which could attract insects.”

“One of the biggest challenges about owning a pet is maintaining their health. We recommend checking that your pet’s vaccinations are up to date all year round.”

Direct Line Pet Insurance most common summer claims

• Grass seeds in paws
• Lung worm
• Heat stroke/sun burn
• Poisonous flowers
• Upset stomachs
• Skin allergies
   

As temperatures rise, follow Direct Line’s top tips to help keep your pets safe in the sun

• If a pet has thin or fair fur, they are vulnerable to sunburn and subsequently skin cancer. Seek prompt veterinary advice if your dog or cat’s skin looks sore or scaly. The best prevention is to keep your pets out of the sun when it’s at its strongest (11am until 3pm) or apply a non-toxic waterproof sunblock.
• Do not over exercise your dog in hot weather and avoid walking when the sun is at its strongest.
• Ensure your pet has access to plenty of clean water to avoid dehydration (you may even need to take some on walks). Don’t forget, dogs will need fresh water if they are at the beach, drinking saltwater is likely to make them ill.
• Long haired animals may need their coat trimming in order to keep them cool, seek advice from a professional groomer.
• Never leave your pets shut in a car unattended. Your car can get extremely hot within just a few minutes, which could result in an animal fatality. Cats and dogs can’t sweat so they overheat more quickly than humans, even if they have access to water and good ventilation. Heatstroke and dehydration can have devastating consequences.
• Animals can suffer from fatal heatstroke within a matter of minutes. Signs of heatstroke include collapse, excessive panting, and dribbling. If your pet shows any signs of heatstroke or distress contact your vet immediately.
• Watch out for grass seeds (awns) of the meadow grasses. They often become trapped in dogs’ ears causing violent head shaking, or may become embedded in between paws or other areas.
   

ENDS
 

1Direct Line claims data, 2014

For further information please contact:

Claire Foster

Direct Line

claire.foster@directlinegroup.co.uk  
0165 183 1672

Kia McLean

Citigate Dewe Rogerson

Kia.McLean@citigatedr.co.uk

0207 282 1092

Direct Line

Started in 1985, Direct Line became the first UK insurance company to use the telephone as its main channel of communication. It provides motor, home, travel and pet insurance cover direct to customers by phone or on-line.

Direct Line general insurance policies are underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

Direct Line and UK Insurance limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.

Customers can find out more about Direct Line products or get a quote by calling 0845 300 7838 or visiting