22/05/2026
As we head into the next few days, it’s extremely important to be extra careful with your dogs during this heatwave. High temperatures can become dangerous very quickly, and even short walks or too much exercise can lead to overheating or heatstroke.
Try to walk your dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler, and avoid going out during the hottest parts of the day. Always make sure your dog has access to fresh water and shaded, cool areas. Never leave dogs in parked cars, even for a few minutes, as temperatures can rise dangerously fast.
Hot pavements can seriously burn your dog’s paws, so always check the ground with your hand before heading out. Keep an eye out for signs of heatstroke such as excessive panting, drooling, weakness, vomiting, confusion, or collapse. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, move them somewhere cool immediately, offer small amounts of cool water, and contact your vet straight away.
There are plenty of safe ways to keep your dogs cool, happy, and stimulated during the heatwave:
• Use cooling mats or damp towels
• Keep fresh, cool water available at all times
• Offer frozen treats or ice cubes
• Use paddling pools or gentle water play
• Keep curtains closed and fans on indoors
• Avoid over-exercising and long walks in the heat
I also offer mental stimulation and enrichment activities for dogs, which are a fantastic way to keep them happy, engaged, and tired without the need for long walks or intense exercise during hot weather. Enrichment games, sniff work, puzzles, and interactive activities can help burn energy mentally while keeping your dog safe and cool indoors.
Let’s all do our part to keep our furry friends safe, comfortable, and happy during this heatwave. A little extra care over the next few days can make a huge difference.
