24/06/2026
Home From Home - Red & Amber Weather Warning
During the period of extreme weather that is forecast, Home From Home wanted to share some tips on keeping your much loved dog/pet safe during this period. Or indeed any hot day.
https://www.pdsa.org.uk/press-office/latest-news/helping-pets-in-the-heat
Always provide fresh water and keep the bowl topped up.
Walk your dog very early or late, when the heat of the day has passed. Keep walks short/gentle and not strenuous. Avoid ball games or running with your dog. No dog ever died from a missed walk but things can easily escalate in the heat.
Try to walk on grassed areas and not pavements as these can be too hot for your dog/pets paws.
If you cant hold your hand comfortably on the pavement or surface for 5 seconds, then its too hot for your dog/pet.
Do not leave dogs in cars, even with windows open. (even if its 22 degrees Celsius outside, inside a car the temperature can rise to 47 degrees Celsius) which can be fatal.
https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/all-pets/dogs-die-in-hot-cars-and-on-hot-walks
Keep Curtains and/or blinds closed at home or wherever you are located with your dog/pet. If possible try and find a tiled floor for your dog/pet to lay on. Try and keep the house or area as cool as possible. Provide fresh water.
If you do go outside, provide shade and water. Paddling pools and cool mats are a good option.
Be aware that flat faced breeds (Brachycephalic) are at at more risk of heatstroke in the heat. Older and overweight dogs are also at high risk. Puppies also struggle to regulate heat so this puts them at risk as well.
Signs of heats stroke:
heavy panting:
excessive drooling/foaming
lethargy and confusion
drowsiness
shaking
uncoordinated movements
collapsing
vomiting and/or diarrhoea
seizures
Move your dog/pet to a shaded area and Apply "COOL" water to your dog/pet -NEVER COLD WATER. Do NOT cover your dog as this can trap the heat in.
Contact your vet immediately and let them know you are coming - this is life threatening and Veterinary advise should be sourced urgently.
Please also look at the links below for more help and advice.
https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/pet-health-hub/conditions/heatstroke-in-dogs
Apply sunscreen to a paler skinned dogs/pets (ears, nose, eyelids, belly etc) MAKE SURE THIS IS A PET SAFE MAKE and with an SPF rating of 30 or above.
Home From Home will remain open during this period of extreme weather and we have cool collars, cool mats, built in ceiling fans, tiled floors, frozen dog treats, outside time is prohibited to just relief breaks. If the temperature isn't too hot and we deem it safe to do so. The dogs have use of paddling pools and garden shades, with plenty of water bowls. Not to mention the constant observation of your dog. Their wellbeing and safety is paramount.
Home From Home
With warmer weather forecast across the country this week, it’s important for pet owners to be aware of the dangers of the heat and vet approved ways to stop your pet from overheating.
