The RSPCA has issued an urgent alert advising pet owners to impose a 'dog lockdown' for the next two days as a heatwave sweeps across Wales, with temperatures expected to reach 37°C. The charity's animal welfare experts recommend keeping dogs indoors and avoiding walks entirely during the red weather warning, which could be the hottest period ever recorded in the region.
What Pet Owners Need to Do Now
Lauren Bennett, a dog welfare expert at the RSPCA, said: 'The hot temperatures have arrived in Wales and it means that pet owners need to take action now. During a red weather warning, dog owners should think of it like a temporary lockdown for their pets.' She emphasised that for the next 24 to 48 hours, routines must change immediately, with no walks, ball chasing, or fetch games. 'It's far better for dogs to miss a few walks completely than to suffer the potentially fatal consequences of overheating or heatstroke.'
The warning follows a call from Wales' First Minister, Rhun ap Iorwerth MS, urging the public to heed weather alerts as the region braces for record-breaking temperatures. RSPCA Cymru is encouraging owners to check forecasts, plan cooler walking times, or cancel walks altogether to ensure animal safety.
Risks of Heatstroke and Emergency Actions
The RSPCA stresses that dogs die in hot cars and urges anyone who sees a dog in a hot vehicle to call 999 immediately. Bennett noted that almost half of the public may still underestimate the danger, making it critical to start 'pet homework' now, including checking daily temperature forecasts, planning cooler walks, and knowing how to act in a heatstroke emergency.
Tips for Keeping Pets Cool
Cats and Dogs
- Place extra water bowls in every room and add ice cubes to keep hydration tempting.
- Freeze puzzle toys with treats to provide cooling mental stimulation.
- Limit exercise to dawn or dusk when temperatures are lowest. If in doubt, don't go out.
- Always perform the 'pavement test': if you can't hold your hand on the ground for five seconds, it will burn your dog's paws.
- For active dogs and puppies, opt for brain games, puzzle feeders and paddling pools for stimulation.
- Know the signs of heatstroke, such as heavy panting, drooling, vomiting, or uncoordinated movement.
Other Animals
- Move rabbit and guinea pig pens to shaded areas and regularly refresh their water with a cool, fresh supply.
- Check that indoor enclosures for small furries such as hamsters, gerbils and rats are not in direct sunlight and benefit from good airflow.
Bennett concluded: 'Taking these simple steps now is the best way to safeguard your dog's life.'
