A £14 cooling jacket for dogs has been described as a 'game-changer' by pet owners as the UK heatwave pushes temperatures to 38C. The Petface Cooling Dog Coat, available at Argos, uses evaporative cooling technology to help dogs regulate their body temperature. Veterinary experts are urging owners to adapt routines and consider products like these to keep pets safe during extreme heat.
Vets Warn Against Walking Dogs in Extreme Heat
Dr Samantha Butler-Davies MRCVS, Veterinary Director at Pets at Home, advises owners to skip walks during the hottest parts of the day. 'If in doubt, don't go out,' she said. 'Missing one walk is unlikely to harm your dog, but going out in the hottest part of the day can. Flat-faced breeds such as pugs, bulldogs and French bulldogs are at even more risk because they find it harder to cool themselves.'
The warning comes as much of the UK experiences a heatwave, with temperatures reaching 38C in some areas. Dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke than humans due to their limited ability to sweat, relying mainly on panting and paw pads to cool down.
Cooling Jackets: How They Work and Real-World Results
Cooling jackets like the Petface model work by being soaked in water, wrung out, and then worn by the dog. As the water evaporates, it draws heat away from the body. They are especially beneficial for thick-coated breeds and brachycephalic dogs. The jacket is available in sizes 30cm, 40cm, and 50cm, priced between £14 and £18.
Daily Express deputy head of audience Rob Virtue purchased one for his Golden Retriever, Dolly. 'Being a big dog with a lot of hair, Dolly was completely wiped out by the hot weather and looked very pained,' he said. 'She was constantly panting without moving and struggling to find a cool spot. But with the Petface Cooling Dog Coat, she doesn't have the option to escape and actually seems upset when she's not got it on. It's a game-changer and very easy to use.'
He noted that the large size was slightly too big for Dolly but still usable. Proper sizing is important for optimal cooling performance.
Cooling Mats: Pressure-Activated Gel Technology
Cooling mats offer an alternative for dogs that dislike wearing jackets. Pets at Home stocks a range of cooling mats priced between £14 and £18, available in sizes from extra small/medium (1cm x 60cm x 45cm) to large/x-large (1cm x 140cm x 90cm). These mats use pressure-activated gel technology that cools automatically when the dog lies down, requiring no refrigeration.
They are particularly useful for older dogs, puppies, and thick-coated breeds, providing a cool surface both indoors and outdoors. The mats are lightweight and portable, making them suitable for travel or garden use.
Splash Pads: Garden Fun for Water-Loving Dogs
Splash pads are another option for keeping dogs cool while allowing them to play. The BestWay dog splash pad, currently discounted from £22.99 to £17.99 on Amazon, connects to a standard garden hose and creates gentle water sprays. Made from non-slip, durable material, it is ideal for dogs that enjoy water but are not confident swimmers.
One satisfied customer wrote: 'What a great dog pool!! He had so much fun and kept him cool during the hot day. It was super easy to hook up - just connect the hose and wait for it to fill and for the jets to start to spray. He spent most of the day just chilling in the pool!'
However, buyers should check compatibility with their hosepipe connections, as some Hozelock fittings may not work. Water meter users should also note that the water must run continuously for the jets to operate.
Additional Tips for Keeping Dogs Cool
In addition to these products, vets recommend keeping dogs in the shade, using fans, providing constant access to fresh water, and avoiding exercise during peak heat hours. The RSPCA advises that signs of heatstroke in dogs include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and collapse, and owners should seek veterinary help immediately if these occur.
