Dogs in danger: Vet warns against letting pets sleep under covers

Does your dog sleep with you in bed, or worse, under the covers? You must realise that this can be dangerous for them. Katy Alexander, a British veterinary doctor, warns dog owners about the consequences of this practice.

Dogs and cats often become integral members of families, and their owners want to spend every free moment with them. This is natural, but knowing what to watch out for is important. If your dog sleeps with you every night, especially under the covers, you should know what risks this can present.

Katy Alexander emphasises that dogs sleeping under the covers can be dangerous, especially for older dogs, puppies, and breeds with characteristic flat faces, such as brachycephalic breeds - for example, French Bulldogs.

- Very small dogs, puppies, elderly dogs, and dogs with arthritis or other mobility problems may struggle to find a safe exit if they are getting too hot - she said in an interview with "The Telegraph."

Alexander adds that dogs’ body temperatures are usually higher than humans'. For this reason, their bodies heat up faster, and overheating can lead to serious illnesses and even death.

The veterinary doctor also shared a tip on how to recognise the signs of overheating in a dog.

- Dogs who are starting to overheat will pant and become agitated; if you notice this we recommend removing the duvet or blankets immediately - she said.

She also strongly advises against covering animals with electric blankets, which can cause burns. The electric cord is also a danger, as the pet can simply chew through it.