McGrath Vets

27/05/2026

BBQ season is here… but it can come with hidden risks for our pets 🐾⚠️​

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From hot grills and sharp skewers to fatty foods and bones, there’s more to watch out for than you might think. Even small things like food scraps or smoke can cause harm.​

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Take a look at our top tips to keep them safe this summer 👇​

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https://www.vetpartners.co.uk/pet-advice/safety-during-bbq-season/

26/05/2026

Even on mild days, the temperature inside a car can rise dangerously fast 🚗🌡️​

​Leaving a dog in a parked car - even for a few minutes - can be
life-threatening.​

​If you’re out and about, please make sure your pet stays safe,
cool, and is never left alone in a vehicle.

26/05/2026

26/05/2026

HOW TO SPOT HEAT EXPOSURE 👇​

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Panting in hot weather is normal, but there are five symptoms you should never ignore if your pet has been exposed to the heat. Contact us immediately if your pet shows any of the symptoms shown in the graphic.​

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*Please be aware that A mild form of these symptoms can be normal after exercise. If you’re unsure, please contact us for advice.​

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Stay safe and enjoy the weather ❤

26/05/2026

22° outside. 47° inside the car. 🥵​

​Unlike humans, dogs can’t sweat through their skin, and they can overheat incredibly quickly so NEVER leave dogs in a hot car, even for a few minutes.​

​RSPCA have an excellent guide on what to do if you find a dog in a hot car: https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/dogsinhotcars ​

​Be ❤

25/05/2026

Exercising in temps over 20 degrees can be a risk to fit healthy dogs, much lower for elderly, obese, flat-faced or large breed dogs 🌡️🔥​

​Take them for a walk early morning or evening when it’s cool.​

​Stay safe and enjoy the glorious weather ❤

25/05/2026

Put the back of your hand on the pavement…​

​If you can't keep it there for five seconds, it's too hot for paws.​

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25/05/2026

Remember: Wet then Vet. 🌊🏥👇​

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Quickly wet the dog with cool water around 15 degrees (not freezing cold). If not available, any water that is cooler than the dog’s skin feels.​

Cool water, around 15°C, is ideal, but any water will help. If you only have soft drinks, ensure they don't contain xylitol, and avoid pouring them on the dog's head. Wetting the dog will promote cooling through evaporation. Do this before taking them to the vet but don't spend too much time on it.​

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Afterward, contact the vet and inform them about the situation and how long it will take you to arrive. This allows the vet's team to prepare for your dog's arrival and increases their chances of receiving prompt treatment.​

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Avoid using wet towels on the dog as they can trap heat. However, specialised cooling vests that function through evaporation are suitable.​

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25/05/2026

Heatstroke cases in pets are all too common; share the below far and wide!​

​Many dogs get heatstroke when their owners take them out during high temperatures. Let's prevent heatstroke by knowing when it's safe to take your dog outside, and please contact us if you think your dog might have heatstroke!​

And remember to keep your pets hydrated and are given plenty of shade.​

Enjoy the sunshine, but please keep tabs on your pets x​

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Protect your dog from heatstroke ☀️​

Heatstroke cases are all too common, and many dogs get heatstroke when their owners exercise them during high temperatures.​

Prevent heatstroke by getting to know when it's safe to take your dog outside, and please contact us immediately if you think your dog might have heatstroke!​

🚨 28 °C and over - This is dangerous for all dogs, especially puppies and flat faced, large or obese dogs.​

🔴 24-27°C - Be very careful, as most dogs will struggle in these temperatures, particularly larger, obese, flat-faced or very young dogs.​

✋ 20-23°C - Heatstroke is still a risk at these temperatures for some dogs so take precautions, ensure hydrated and go steady ​

🟠 16-19°C - It's usually safe to take your dog out, but take extra care if you've got a large, obese or flat-faced dog.​

✔️ 12-15°C – It’s safe to exercise your dog! ​

For further advice on heatstroke, please get in touch