When temperatures soar during a heatwave, it is not just people who can struggle with the heat. Dogs are particularly vulnerable to high temperatures and can quickly become overheated, putting them at risk of serious health problems such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. As a responsible pet owner, taking extra precautions during hot weather can help keep your dog safe, comfortable and healthy.

Unlike humans, dogs cannot regulate their body temperature by sweating through their skin. Instead, they mainly cool themselves through panting and limited sweating through their paw pads. This makes it much harder for them to cope when temperatures rise, especially for breeds with thick coats, short noses, or underlying health conditions.

One of the most important things you can do during a heatwave is ensure your dog always has access to fresh, clean drinking water. Keep water bowls topped up throughout the day and consider placing multiple bowls around your home and garden. If you are heading out, bring a portable water bottle and bowl so your dog can stay hydrated wherever you go.

Exercise routines should also be adjusted during hot weather. Avoid walking your dog during the hottest parts of the day, typically between late morning and early evening. Instead, choose early morning or later evening walks when temperatures are cooler. Hot pavements can burn sensitive paw pads, so test the surface with the back of your hand for a few seconds. If it feels too hot for you, it is too hot for your dog.

Providing plenty of shade is essential. If your dog spends time outdoors, make sure there is a cool, shaded area where they can escape direct sunlight. Trees, covered patios and specially designed pet shelters can all help. However, it is often safest to keep dogs indoors during extreme heat, particularly during the hottest hours of the day.

Cooling aids can offer additional relief. Cooling mats, damp towels and paddling pools can help lower your dog's body temperature. Some dogs also enjoy frozen treats made from dog-safe ingredients. However, avoid using ice-cold water to cool an overheated dog, as sudden temperature changes can sometimes do more harm than good.

Owners should also be aware of the signs of heat-related illness. Excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, confusion and difficulty breathing can all indicate that a dog is struggling with the heat. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, move them to a cool area immediately, offer water and contact a veterinarian as soon as possible. Heatstroke is a medical emergency and can become life-threatening very quickly.

One rule that cannot be stressed enough is never leave a dog in a parked car. Even with windows partially open, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly within minutes, reaching dangerous levels that can cause fatal heatstroke.

Quick Heatwave Tips for Dog Owners

• Always provide plenty of fresh, clean drinking water.
• Walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower.
• Avoid strenuous exercise during hot weather.
• Check pavement temperatures before walks to prevent burned paw pads.
• Provide access to shade both indoors and outdoors.
• Use cooling mats, damp towels or paddling pools to help your dog stay comfortable.
• Never leave your dog unattended in a parked car, even for a few minutes.
• Groom your dog regularly to remove excess fur, but avoid shaving double-coated breeds unless advised by a professional.
• Watch for signs of overheating, including excessive panting, drooling, lethargy and vomiting.
• Contact a veterinarian immediately if you suspect heatstroke.

Heatwaves can be challenging for pets, but with some simple precautions, you can significantly reduce the risks. By providing fresh water, adjusting exercise times, creating cool resting areas and remaining alert to signs of overheating, you can help ensure your dog stays safe and comfortable throughout the hottest days of the year.