22/06/2026
HEAT WARNING – KEEP YOUR PETS SAFE
With extreme temperatures forecast over the next few days, we're urging all pet owners to take extra care to keep their animals cool and safe. Older pets, those with health conditions, overweight, unfit, and short-nosed animals may be particularly at risk.
Top tips to prevent heatstroke:
• Walk dogs early in the morning or late in the evening when it's cooler.
• Stick to shaded areas and take plenty of fresh water with you.
• Never leave pets in parked cars, even for a few minutes.
• Keep pets indoors during the hottest part of the day and provide cool, well-ventilated spaces.
• Use cooling mats, damp towels, paddling pools or frozen treats to help pets stay comfortable.
• Check pavements with the back of your hand – if it's too hot for you, it's too hot for their paws.
Signs of heatstroke include:
• Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
• Drooling
• Lethargy, weakness or collapse
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Bright red gums
• Seizures or unconsciousness
If you suspect heatstroke:
• Move your pet to a cool, shaded area immediately.
• Pour cool (not ice-cold) water over their body, especially the tummy, paws and inner thighs.
• Place them in front of a fan if available.
• Offer small amounts of cool water to drink.
• Contact your local branch straight away for advice and further treatment – even if your pet seems to recover, heatstroke can cause serious internal damage.
Please help us spread the word and keep our furry friends safe during this hot spell.
