23/05/2026
☀️🐾 HOT WEATHER WARNING FOR PET OWNERS 🐾☀️
As the temperatures rise, it’s important to remember that hot weather can be dangerous for ALL pets — not just dogs. 🌡️
During Vet Nurse Awareness Month, our nurses want to help keep your furry, feathered and scaly family members safe this summer 💙
🐶 Dogs can quickly suffer from heatstroke, especially during walks in warm weather. Avoid walking during the hottest parts of the day, always provide fresh water, and NEVER leave pets in cars — even for a few minutes.
⚠️ Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, French Bulldogs and Boxers are especially at risk of overheating due to the shape of their airways and may struggle to cool themselves down even in milder temperatures.
🔥 Please also remember that pavements can become extremely hot and may burn your dog’s paw pads. If it’s too hot for the back of your hand for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for paws.
🐱 Cats may seek out warm sunny spots and are much better at regulating their own body temperature than dogs, but can still become dehydrated or overheat. Make sure they always have access to shade and fresh water.
🐰 Rabbits and guinea pigs are extremely sensitive to heat and can become critically ill very quickly in warm temperatures. Hutches and runs should always be kept in shaded, well-ventilated areas. Frozen water bottles wrapped in towels, cooling mats and plenty of fresh greens can help keep them cool.
🐹 Small furries such as hamsters, rats, mice and gerbils can also struggle in the heat. Keep enclosures away from direct sunlight and ensure good airflow at all times.
🦜 Birds can overheat too — ensure they have shaded areas, fresh water for drinking and bathing, and avoid stuffy rooms.
🐔 Chickens can also struggle in hot weather. Ensure they always have access to shade, cool fresh water and good ventilation. Frozen treats, dust baths and shallow trays of water can help keep them comfortable during hotter days.
🦎 Reptiles still require heat sources for proper care, but it’s important to monitor enclosure temperatures carefully during hot weather to prevent overheating. Always check thermostats and temperature gradients regularly.
⚠️ Signs of heatstroke or overheating can include:
• Panting or rapid breathing
• Drooling
• Weakness or collapse
• Lethargy
• Red gums
• Vomiting
• Seizures
If you are concerned your pet may be overheating, contact your vet immediately.
💙 Our veterinary nurses are always happy to offer advice on keeping your pets safe and comfortable during the warmer weather — please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
📞 As we will be closed over the Bank Holiday weekend, if you require advice please contact VidiVet. In a life-threatening emergency, please contact Vets Now immediately.
We hope everyone enjoys the sunshine safely and has a lovely Bank Holiday weekend with their pets ☀️🐾
