The tragic death of a pug named Gilbert during the UK's current heatwave has prompted urgent warnings from animal welfare experts. Gilbert, owned by Kellie-Jay Keen, died after leaving the cool kitchen and entering the garden while his owner was out. Keen confirmed the loss on X, writing: "My dog just died in the heat. He escaped the cool kitchen whilst I was out. So long Gilbert."
Met Office Issues Severe Weather Warnings
The Met Office has placed both amber and severe red weather warnings in its forecast for the next four days. A severe red warning is in effect for June 25 and June 26, while an amber warning is listed for June 27. Yellow weather warnings for thunderstorms are also in place for parts of Scotland and the south east from today.
According to the Met Office, 18 areas are facing heavy rain and storms on Friday, and a six-hour thunderstorm warning has been issued for six areas on Thursday.
Owner's Heartbreaking Account
Keen shared her devastation on social media, saying: "It's been a devastating night of what ifs. Our poor happy little dog went to a part of the garden I've never seen him in. He could have come back in to the cool kitchen at any point. He had a cold fan, cold water, ice cream earlier, he'd been hosed down. Maybe I should have got him a paddling pool as I'd thought the night before? He got through hot days and nights before, without incident. We said our last goodbyes, but the what ifs remain unresolved."
RSPCA Issues Urgent Advice
Dog welfare expert Lauren Bennett from the RSPCA has issued crucial advice for pet owners during the record-breaking temperatures, as reported by The Sun. Bennett stated: "Planning ahead and being prepared in this hot weather can help save pets' lives. Complacency can mean soaring temperatures are a silent killer for our beloved animals."
She added: "We are reminding pet owners to keep a really close eye on their animals during this heatwave, skip the hot walks, and never ever leave their dog in a hot vehicle." Bennett recommended putting ice cubes in water bowls and dousing overheated dogs with cold water. She also warned against putting damp towels over dogs, as this can trap heat, and advised placing towels under dogs instead to prevent heatstroke.
How to Keep Pets Safe in Hot Weather
The RSPCA advises pet owners to provide constant access to shade and fresh water, avoid exercising dogs during the hottest parts of the day, and never leave animals in parked cars, even for a short time. Signs of heatstroke in dogs include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and vomiting. If a pet shows these signs, immediate cooling measures and veterinary attention are recommended.
