The RSPCA has issued a critical warning for dog owners as the UK endures a severe heatwave, with temperatures expected to exceed 30°C and potentially reach 38-40°C in some areas. The animal welfare charity emphasizes a simple five-second rule: if the pavement is too hot to touch with your hand for five seconds, it is too hot for your dog's paws.
When to Walk Your Dog
The RSPCA advises walking dogs in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Avoid running or cycling with your dog during hot weather. Dogs can overheat quickly, and heatstroke can be fatal.
Warning Signs of Heatstroke
Key signs include heavy panting, excessive drooling, lethargy, drowsiness, uncoordinated movements, collapsing, and vomiting. Owners should also look for limping, refusing to walk, licking or chewing paws, darker paw pads, missing parts of pads, blisters, or redness.
What to Do If Your Dog Overheats
Stop further heating, cool the dog down, and take them to the nearest vet. Pour cool water over their body or submerge them in cool water, such as a paddling pool or stream. Lauren Bennett, dog welfare expert at the RSPCA, said: "Contrary to popular belief, cold water rarely causes shock in over-heating dogs - dousing or immersing the over-heated dog in cold water is vital to their recovery."
Never Leave Dogs in Hot Environments
Never leave dogs in cars, other vehicles, caravans, conservatories, or outbuildings in warm weather, even for a short time. When it's 22°C outside, temperatures can quickly rise to 47°C in these environments, which can be fatal.
Heatwave Forecast
The Met Office has issued red and amber weather warnings due to extreme heat. Temperatures will quickly rise on Monday, reaching 34°C in southern England, with thundery showers possible. Tuesday will see highs of 37°C in southern England and 35°C in southeast Wales. The peak is forecast for Wednesday and Thursday, with temperatures climbing to at least 39°C. By Friday, conditions will be less hot, with highs of 32°C in eastern areas. Overnight temperatures will also be very high, with widespread Tropical Nights (above 20°C) across parts of England and Wales, especially in urban areas. Humidity adds to the impact, making heat stress a danger to all.
