With temperatures across parts of the UK set to hit 33°C this weekend, many Brits will be looking forward to spending time in the sunshine.
But if you have a pet, make sure you’re keeping an eye on them.
Experts from leading vet charity, PDSA, have warned of the dangers of heat for cats and dogs.
PDSA Vet Nurse Shauna Walsh said: ‘Hot temperatures can lead to fatal consequences for our pets.
‘Too much sun or heat can be extremely dangerous for our canine companions, especially for flat–faced breeds and overweight dogs, who find it much more difficult to cool themselves down.
‘Older dogs and those with ongoing health problems may also find it more difficult to manage their body temperature.’
If you have a pet, thankfully there are several easy things you can do to ensure they stay cool this bank holiday.
From creating mini paddling pools to freezing fruits and vegetables, here are the tips and tricks to keep your dog or cat safe.
With temperatures across parts of the UK set to hit 33°C this weekend, many Brits will be looking forward to spending time in the sunshine. But if you have a pet, make sure you’re keeping an eye on them (stock image)
Avoid walks during peak heat
While most dogs love to run around, Ms Walsh warns that heatstroke can sneak up on them.
She said: ‘If you do head out for a dog walk, try to go early in the morning or later in the evening when the sun is lower and temperatures are cooler.
‘During a heatwave, skipping a walk altogether may be the safest option, especially for short–faced dogs.
‘It’s also important to bear in mind that playing outside during hot weather can cause your dog to overheat. Check the “feels like” temperature, so you can completely avoid your pets being outside when it’s too warm.’
Create a cool room for your pet
As the temperatures creep up, try to create a cool room for your pet, with good shade and airflow.
‘Choose a room away from direct sunlight and close the curtains or blinds to block out the sun,’ Ms Walsh said.
If you have a pet, thankfully there are several easy things you can do to ensure they stay cool this bank holiday. Unless it’s completely necessary, avoid all travel with your pet (stock image)
‘Use fans or air conditioning to keep the air moving and fresh and always make sure your pet has access to plenty of clean and fresh water.’
While many dog owners worry about their pets overheating, Ms Walsh advises cat owners to also be wary.
She added: ‘Make sure cats always have access to cool, shaded areas indoors or outdoors, and provide plenty of fresh water in multiple locations around the home.
‘During very hot weather, encourage them to rest indoors during the hottest part of the day, particularly older cats, kittens, overweight cats and flat–faced breeds, which can be more vulnerable to heat–related illness.’
Avoid travelling with your pet
Unless it’s completely necessary, avoid all travel with your pet.
Ms Walsh said: ‘Even a quick trip to the shop with your dog left in the car can become extremely dangerous if you’re caught in traffic or face delays.
‘Air conditioning might be keeping you cool in the front, but it can mask the heat your pet feels if they’re in the back or boot of the car.’
Set up a pet paddling pool
Depending on the size of your pet, you can set up a paddling pool to help keep them cool.
‘Filling a shallow paddling pool or washing up bowl with cold water can give your dog a much–needed chance to cool their paws,’ the vet nurse explained. ‘Gently wetting their body with cool water also really helps to cool them down.’
Create cooling snacks – but avoid solid ice cubes
Ice itself will help to keep animals cool – but make sure you avoid giving your pet solid ice cubes.
‘These can fracture teeth, especially in enthusiastic chewers,’ Ms Walsh warned.
‘Instead, try offering ice shavings or crushed ice, which are safer and easier to lick.
‘Another good option is to freeze a bowl of water, creating a large block of ice your pet can lick to stay cool without risking dental injury.’
Regular grooming is important for cats too, particularly long–haired breeds, as matted or excess fur can trap heat and make it harder for them to stay cool (stock image)
If you’re feeling creative, you can also freze fruits and vegetables for your dog.
Ms Walsh added: ‘Apples, carrots and pears can help keep them hydrated.’
Place an ice pack in their bed
While the evenings will be cooler than the days, it’s important your pet’s bed is nice and cool for them.
Either place an ice pack wrapped in a towel in your pet’s bed, or consider laying down a cooling mat.
Ms Walsh cautioned: ‘Always supervise your dog to ensure they don’t chew the ice pack or cooling mat, as the contents can be harmful.’
Take your pet to the groomer
Finally, grooming will help your pet to regulate their temperature – particularly if they have long or thick hair.
Ms Walsh added: ‘Although dogs don’t sweat through their skin like humans, a tangle–free coat will allow your dog’s skin to breathe better.
‘Regular grooming is important for cats too, particularly long–haired breeds, as matted or excess fur can trap heat and make it harder for them to stay cool.’
