Temperatures in the UK could rise to 39C today (Wednesday, July 24), with highs of 37C extremely likely as the intense heatwave continues. A rare red alert is in place in London, parts of the Midlands, south-east Wales, and eastern and southern England, with the Met Office danger-to-life weather warning set to last until late tomorrow evening.
Five-Second Test for Dog Owners
Pet owners are being urged to keep their dogs safe during the heatwave with a simple five-second test. Dr. Angela Jones, a vet and co-founder of the pet prescription service Petscribers, explained that dogs' paws can burn on hot surfaces. Speaking to the Daily Mail, she said: "If you can't comfortably hold the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds, it's too hot for your dog to walk on. Artificial grass, sand and decking can become extremely hot."
Best Times to Walk Your Dog
Experts advise taking dogs out either very early in the morning or very late in the evening to avoid the worst of the heat. Dr. Jones added: "Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Most dogs will benefit from shorter, lower-intensity walks during hot weather." She also noted that flat-faced breeds might be safest skipping their walk if conditions are too hot.
Keeping Dogs Cool and Hydrated
Dr. Jones recommends keeping fresh water constantly available for your dog, and even suggests adding ice to keep it cold. Paddling pools can also help regulate their body temperature. Other advice includes never leaving your dog unattended in a parked car. If you suspect heatstroke, move them to a cool, ventilated area, soak their body with cold or cool water, offer them water, and if none of these improve the situation, contact your vet.
Window Advice for Homes
Brits have also been given advice on the best times to open and close windows during the heatwave. The experts at SCI Windows say: "There is lots of advice available on the internet, but the general rule is: open the windows if house temperature is greater than outside temperature. Otherwise keep them closed to keep the cool air inside, as long as possible." They suggest keeping windows open at night when feasible and first thing in the morning before temperatures rise again. Alan Reid, windows specialist at Art Windows and Doors, informed the Manchester Evening News that households should begin opening windows at 8pm when outdoor temperatures begin to fall. John Small, owner of UK housebuilder Ty Eco, believes windows should be closed around 9am when temperatures start climbing again, according to the Border Counties Advertiser.
