24/06/2026
☀️🐶 Kent is under a red extreme heat warning - dogs need special care ☀️🐶
The Met Office is warning of temperatures approaching 39–40°C with unusually warm nights, creating a risk of heat stress even for healthy animals.
What to do with your dog:
🏡Keep them indoors during the hottest hours
* Avoid walks roughly between 8am and 8pm while temperatures are at their peak.
* If a walk is necessary, go very early morning or late evening when pavements have cooled.
🥵 Check pavement temperature
* Place the back of your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds.
* If it’s uncomfortable for you, it’s too hot for paws.
💦 Provide constant access to cool water
* Put out multiple water bowls.
* Add ice cubes if your dog likes them.
* Consider a shallow paddling pool in a shaded area.
❄️ Keep the house cool
* Close curtains/blinds on sunny sides of the house during the day.
* Open windows when outside temperatures drop in the evening.
* Use fans to circulate air (not aimed directly at a dog for hours).
Use cooling methods correctly
* Cool (not ice-cold) water on paws, belly, and inner thighs can help.
* The RSPCA advises not to drape wet towels over a dog, as they can trap heat. If using a towel, place it underneath the dog and re-wet it frequently.
🚘 Never leave a dog in a car
* Even with windows open, temperatures can become fatal within minutes.
🐕 Dogs at highest risk:
Extra caution is needed for:
* Flat-faced breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs)
* Elderly dogs
* Puppies
* Overweight dogs
* Dogs with heart or breathing conditions
🚑 Signs of heatstroke:
Seek veterinary help immediately if you notice:
* Excessive or frantic panting
* Thick drool
* Bright red gums or tongue
* Weakness or wobbling
* Vomiting or diarrhoea
* Confusion, collapse, or seizures
If heatstroke is suspected
The current veterinary advice is “cool first, transport second.”
* Move the dog to shade.
* Use cool water (not ice water) on the body, especially belly and paws.
* Use a fan if available.
* Contact a vet urgently while cooling the dog.
