The RSPCA has settled the debate on whether it is safe for dogs to eat ice cubes during a heatwave, confirming there is no evidence linking ice cubes to bloat or gastric dilation volvulus (GDV). As temperatures climb towards 40 degrees Celsius, the animal welfare charity has issued guidance on keeping pets cool and safe.
Ice Cubes and GDV: No Evidence of Risk
Some dog owners have expressed concerns that ice cubes might cause bloat or GDV, a life-threatening condition in dogs. However, the RSPCA has dismissed these fears. A spokeswoman told The Mirror: "There have been some anecdotal reports circulated online that giving dogs ice cubes can cause them to develop bloat, or gastric dilation volvulus (GDV). However, studies into the risk factors for GDV have not identified ice cubes as a risk factor."
The RSPCA advises that ice cubes can be a safe and effective way to help dogs cool down. They recommend freezing a dog's water bowl or Kong toy before adding water or treats, or simply putting ice cubes into the water bowl. Another suggestion is making tasty ice cube treats.
Extreme Heat Precautions for Pets
The RSPCA has renewed appeals for pet owners to take immediate action during the heatwave after filming a pavement reaching 61 degrees Celsius—hot enough to burn the paws of dogs and cats. Esme Wheeler, the RSPCA's dog welfare expert, said: "This weather is extreme and it's a life or death situation for some people, let alone animals, who rely on us to help them survive the intense temperatures. We all have a duty to take every precaution possible."
Wheeler added: "These few days of extreme hot weather need to be taken very seriously, that means staying inside or wherever it is coolest, skipping walking dogs and riding horses, and doing everything we can to provide shade and fresh water for wildlife."
Essential Steps to Help Animals During Intense Heat
- Provide several water bowls around the home for pets to drink often.
- Place containers of water outside for wild animals.
- Do not take your dog on a car journey unless absolutely necessary.
- Try to keep at least one room in the home as cool as possible by closing curtains or using a fan (kept out of reach) to encourage good airflow.
- Check pets and outdoor animals such as chickens and small furry animals every hour for signs of heatstroke, fly-strike, or sunburn, and keep water topped up.
- Do not take your dog out for a walk or exercise—it may be possible to take them for a gentle walk on the lead when the sun has gone down either early morning or late at night.
- Keep toilet breaks for dogs very brief and try to stick to shaded spots as much as you possibly can.
- If your dog, cat, or small furry animal looks uncomfortable, try wrapping an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel and place it near them to lie next to, or use damp towels for your pet to lie on.
- Dogs die in hot cars. Call 999 in an emergency if you see a dog in a hot car.
The RSPCA's advice comes as three in 10 pet owners worry about their companion going missing at least once a week, according to recent surveys.
