How to Keep Your Pet Cool and Safe During UK Heatwaves

When temperatures rise across the UK, our furry friends can find it challenging to cope with the heat. While summer brings longer days and plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures, it also raises the risk of heat-related health issues in pets, such as heatstroke and dehydration.

In this article, we'll share essential tips for keeping your pets cool, safe, and comfortable during those hot British summer days.

Why Heatwaves Can Be Dangerous for Pets

Pets handle heat differently from humans. Dogs and cats rely mostly on panting to cool down, and this becomes increasingly difficult during prolonged periods of hot weather. Certain pets are even more susceptible, including:

• Flat-faced breeds (such as Bulldogs, Pugs, and Persian cats)

• Elderly pets or very young animals

• Pets with underlying health conditions

• Overweight pets

• Long-haired or thick-coated breeds

Understanding the risks can help you take proactive steps to protect your pets during heatwaves.

Signs of Heatstroke in Pets

Recognising the early signs of heatstroke can save your pet’s life. Symptoms to watch out for include:

• Excessive panting or drooling

• Weakness or lethargyBright red gums or tongue

• Difficulty breathing

• Vomiting or diarrhoea

• Confusion or disorientation

• Collapse

If your pet displays any of these signs, seek veterinary care immediately—heatstroke can be life-threatening.

Top Tips to Keep Pets Cool During UK Heatwaves

1. Keep Your Pet Hydrated

Always provide fresh, clean drinking water. Add extra water bowls around your home and garden, and encourage your pet to drink frequently.

2. Provide Plenty of Shade

If your pet enjoys being outdoors, make sure there's plenty of shaded areas available, such as under trees, awnings, or pet-friendly shelters. Shade helps reduce the risk of overheating.

3. Avoid Exercising During Peak Heat

Walk your dogs early in the morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. Check pavement temperature with your hand—if it's too hot to touch comfortably, it’s too hot for paws.

4. Never Leave Pets in Cars

Cars heat up extremely quickly—even with windows open. Leaving a pet unattended in a hot vehicle can be fatal in minutes.

5. Use Cooling Mats and Products

Cooling mats, bandanas, or jackets can help your pets stay comfortable. Alternatively, dampening a towel with cool water can offer relief during hot spells.

6. Groom Regularly

Regular grooming can reduce overheating. Removing excess hair and mats allows better airflow to your pet’s skin, helping them stay cooler naturally.

7. Create a Cool Indoor Environment

Keep curtains or blinds closed during the hottest parts of the day to maintain a cooler indoor environment. Fans or air conditioning can also help—but ensure your pet isn't directly exposed to drafts.

What to Do if You Suspect Heatstroke

If you suspect your pet has heatstroke follow this advice from the Royal Veterinary College:

• Take your pet somewhere cool, ideally a well ventilated area or use a fan

• Offer them small sips of water (do not force them to drink)

• Cold water immersion is an effective approach for young, healthy dogs

• Evaporation method: Pouring water of any temperature that is cooler than your dog over them and combine with air movement from a breeze, fan, or air conditioning (evaporative cooling) for older dogs or dogs with underlying health problems. 

• if you cannot use the evaporation method, cool them down by pouring/hosing cool water on them. It’s important not to use ice-cold water as this can reduce blood flow to the skin, reducing their ability to cool down or even cause them to shiver, increasing heat generation.

• Once you’ve started these steps, call your vets who will be able to advise you further. Even if your pet seems to be ok it’s important to have them checked (unless told otherwise), as the more serious signs of heatstroke may not be immediately apparent.

Heatstroke requires urgent veterinary attention to avoid serious health complications.

Keep Your Pets Safe this Summer

UK heatwaves can be challenging for pets, but with simple precautions and awareness of the dangers, you can help ensure your pet enjoys a safe and comfortable summer. Always watch closely for signs of distress, take proactive measures to keep them cool, and never hesitate to seek veterinary advice if concerned.

Want more summer safety tips or worried about your pet during hot weather? Contact our veterinary team today—we're here to help keep your pets healthy all year round.

Save money, and help your pet live a happy and healthy life with Vital Pets Club, by Roundwood Vets.