The Met Office is advising pet owners not to exercise dogs between 11am and 3pm on Thursday, when UV rays are strongest, as the UK braces for its fifth heatwave of the year. A rare amber extreme heat warning has been issued and will remain in force for much of Thursday across parts of southern and eastern England, as well as the Midlands.
Heat warnings in place
The amber warning warns that transport, infrastructure and health could all be impacted by the heat. Temperatures are forecast to start developing from today with highs of 30C, intensifying on Thursday or Friday, with 38C possible later this week.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has also issued amber heat health alerts across almost all of England. The alerts are in place from 9am on Tuesday until 9am on Friday, with only the North East under a lower-level yellow alert. The UKHSA warns that the extreme temperatures could have a significant impact on health and social care services.
Advice for dog owners
The Met Office advice for staying cool in hot weather says: "Don’t exercise dogs in the hottest parts of the day, especially older pets, flat-faced breeds or dogs with known heart or lung problems. Stick to early morning or late evening walks."
It adds: "Do the five-second tarmac test before taking a dog out for a walk; if it feels too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws."
The forecaster also advises: "Make sure all pets always have access to fresh water to drink, adequate ventilation, and shade from direct sunlight." Some breeds of cats and dogs, particularly those with lighter-coloured or finer fur, may benefit from pet-safe sun cream, especially on the ear tips, which are prone to sunburn.
Record-breaking summer
This summer is on track to be the UK’s hottest on record, according to the Met Office. Temperatures only need to remain around average for the rest of August for the month to break the record set just last year.
