The UK's ongoing heatwave has prompted a stark warning from the RSPCA: dog owners are being advised to put their pets on "lockdown" to prevent serious health risks. With temperatures soaring across the country, even short periods of exercise can be hazardous for dogs, whose bodies struggle to cope with the heat.
Veterinary professionals are reporting a disturbing rise in heat-related illnesses among canines. Amy Wheeler, from CVS Vets in Bristol, said she's seen an increase in pets suffering from conditions that could lead to organ damage due to overheating. She also noted a surge in cases of blisters on dogs' paws caused by contact with scorching pavements.
Dogs are particularly vulnerable to heatstroke because they don't sweat through their skin, relying instead on panting and sweating through their paw pads. Certain breeds, such as French Bulldogs and Pugs, are at higher risk due to their flat-faced anatomy, which impairs efficient panting. Overweight or elderly dogs also face increased susceptibility.
The signs of heatstroke can be subtle but critical: excessive panting, bright red or pale gums, sickness, and lethargy. Some affected dogs have presented with temperatures as high as 41C – a level that poses significant organ damage risk. Meanwhile, tarmac surfaces can reach scorching 52C even when the air temperature is only 25C.
To prevent these risks, the RSPCA recommends owners take precautions: regularly refresh water bowls, close curtains to keep homes cool, use fans, and provide cold, damp towels for dogs to lie on. Exercise should be avoided between 8am and 20pm BST; instead, engage pets in mental stimulation activities during peak heat hours.
At the Dogs Trust centre in Salisbury, Wiltshire, staff are employing creative methods to keep resident dogs cool and stimulated, including frozen toys and puzzle feeders. Dr Samantha Gaines, a dog welfare expert at the RSPCA, urges owners to be vigilant whenever temperatures rise, prioritising their pets' comfort above all else.