With temperatures set to soar across the UK this bank holiday weekend, a vet with over 30 years of experience is advising dog owners to take a simple precaution: carry a wet bandana. The Met Office has forecast highs of 33°C on Monday, prompting concerns for pets' safety.
In a TikTok video, the expert known as @pet_health_daily warned that dogs often don't show obvious signs of overheating until it's too late. He recommended soaking a bandana in cold water, ringing it out, and tying it loosely around the dog's neck before heading out. 'It acts like a cooling collar, helping regulate their body temperature during walks or playtime,' he said.
The Blue Cross charity also issued guidance, noting that temperatures over 20°C can put dogs at higher risk of heatstroke, especially during strenuous exercise. They advised walking dogs early in the morning or late in the evening, avoiding hot pavements, and ensuring access to shade and fresh water. 'If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for their paws,' a spokesperson said.
Additional tips include never leaving a dog in a parked car, offering frozen treats, and using cooling mats or damp towels. Dogs with underlying conditions, thick coats, or brachycephalic breeds are particularly vulnerable. The charity emphasised that exercise is not necessary in extreme heat and that dogs should be kept indoors in a cool room during the hottest periods.
