Monty Don, the renowned gardener and presenter of BBC's Gardeners' World, has shared an update on his golden retriever Ned, who was seen drinking his bathwater to cool down during a record-breaking heatwave. Fans responded with sympathy, calling Ned a "poor baby" and expressing concern for his well-being.
Heatwave challenges for pets
The UK has been experiencing scorching temperatures, making it difficult for both people and animals to stay cool. Dogs are especially vulnerable to heatstroke, a potentially fatal condition. The RSPCA advises that if a dog cannot lower its body temperature through panting, it may develop heatstroke, requiring immediate action to reduce its body temperature before seeking veterinary help.
Monty Don's update on Ned
In an Instagram video, Ned is seen standing in a shallow outdoor bath filled with water. Monty Don captioned the clip: "Drinking one's bathwater..." Followers quickly commented, with one saying: "Aww...poor baby! Keep cool, Ned (and Monty and family!)" Another wrote: "Poor baby is so hot. Drink up, Ned!" A third added: "Poor Ned", while a fourth remarked: "Aah so hot, panting."
How to keep dogs safe in the heat
The RSPCA recommends cooling dogs down quickly if they show signs of overheating. The first step is to cool the dog, then transport it to a vet. Owners should avoid placing wet towels over the dog, as this can trap heat. Instead, wet towels should be placed beneath the dog and re-wetted frequently. Keeping paws cool can also help lower overall body temperature.
Monty Don has previously written on his website about his lifelong bond with dogs, stating: "I have lived with dogs all my life and so it is absolutely natural to me that wherever I am in the garden I should be accompanied by a dog or two. It is their garden as much as mine or any other members of the family."
About Monty Don
Monty Don is best known as the lead presenter of BBC's Gardeners' World, a role he assumed in 2003 after Alan Titchmarsh's recommendation. He began his television career in 1989 with a gardening slot on This Morning and has since written over 25 books. In 2026, he presented Monty Don's Rhineland Gardens.
