The RSPCA has issued a 'lockdown' warning for UK pet owners amid soaring temperatures, urging them to 'pause all walks' and follow safety advice. The warning comes during the fifth widespread heatwave this year, with Amber Alerts in place across many areas until 9pm tonight (Friday, August 14).
Urgent plea to dog owners
Posting on Facebook, the animal welfare charity said: "An amber heat warning is now in place - with temperatures soaring up to 36°C in parts of the UK."
"We are urging all dog owners to treat this extreme heat like a lockdown for their pets, and pause all walks. As we navigate our 5th heatwave of the summer, our website has recorded over 30,000 visits from owners seeking heat safety guidance over the past month. Please stay vigilant, keep your pets cool, and share this warning to help keep dogs safe."
Why dogs are at risk
According to the RSPCA, dogs are at high risk of heatstroke because they can't cool themselves by sweating, as humans do. "Dogs lose heat through panting, can only sweat through their paws, and are at high risk of getting heatstroke," the advice page explains.
Owners must provide constant access to shaded areas inside and out and make sure there is always clean, cold water available, the RSPCA said. When it is cooler, dog owners can check whether it is safe to walk their pet by feeling the ground for about five seconds.
Ground heat and warning signs
"Pavements can get very hot! You know the saying, "it's hot enough to fry an egg!" Imagine what that does to your poor dogs' feet! If the ground is too hot to touch with your hand for five seconds, it’s too hot for paws!"
The RSPCA added that owners should watch out for signs that their dog is limping, licking feet, missing part of the pad, or refusing to walk. Animal lovers should also be alert to the signs of heat stroke and contact a vet immediately if they notice any symptoms.
They can include heavy panting, collapsing, vomiting, excessive drooling, and drowsiness. The charity warned: "When a dog gets too hot and can’t lower its temperature by panting, it can develop heatstroke. This can be fatal, so you need to act fast to reduce their body temperature first, then get help."
Cooling your pet safely
Owners can cool their pet by pouring cool water over them or submerging them in cool water. The water temperature needs to be cooler than the dog's temperature, the RSPCA added. However, owners shouldn't cover their dog with a damp towel, as it can trap heat and make things worse.
The experts said that any dog can get heatstroke, but some animals face a higher risk. For instance, puppies and older dogs cannot regulate their temperature as well. Breed, coat thickness, and health conditions can also be factors.
