Dog owners are being advised to keep their pets cool as a week of sizzling temperatures are forecast.
Highs of 28C are expected in Newcastle this week, with warm temperatures forecast from Tuesday onwards.
Animal welfare charity Dogs Trust is reminding pet owners not to leave their dogs in parked cards, even for a few minutes, as it can be fatal.
Dogs Trust says on a 22C (71.6F) day, the temperature inside a car could rise by 11C in just 10 minutes and because dogs cannot cool down the same way as humans, the heat can quickly become dangerous for them.
Earlier this week an American Bulldog Finlay was left fighting for his life after his body temperature soared to a life-threatening 42.2C (108F) during recent hot weather in Glasgow.
The one-year-old - who was born with three legs - became overheated when his owner took him to a park.
Dogs trust also warns owners not to walk their pets during the hottest times of the day. Early morning or late evening walks are best, accompanied with water.
Hot tarmac can burn paws, while owners should also use sun blinds in their cars when they take their pets on long journeys.
Is my dog suffering in the sun?
Excessive panting, anxious pacing or, in severe cases, collapsing or convulsing can be signs that your pet could be suffering from heat stroke and you should contact your vet immediately.
Tips for keeping your dog cool in the heatwave
Newcastle's Westway Vets has issued the following tips on how to keep your pets safe:
Never leave your pet unattended in the car, conservatory or outbuildings
Temperatures can rise to levels that can prove fatal. Opening a window, parking in the shade or leaving a bowl of water will not prevent heatstroke. Even leaving a pet for five minutes is long enough for it to be affected. Always take your dog out of the vehicle with you. Equally, conservatories or green houses can have the same effect when temperatures soar.
Make sure your dog drinks plenty of water
Just like humans, it is vital pets are well hydrated on hot days so ensure they have access to cool water and keep bowls topped up. Cats and dogs find it more difficult to regulate their temperature and are more likely to become dehydrated.
Watch for heat stroke
Excess panting, pacing and, in severe cases, collapsing or convulsing are signs your pet has heat stroke. Contact your vet immediately if you see these signs.
Avoid hot pavements when walking your dog
Pavements can become extremely hot and burn paws. Limping or licking feet could be signs of burnt paws. Walk pets at the coolest part of the day.
Stay out of the midday sun
This is the hottest part of the day so keep pets out of direct sunlight when the sun’s rays are at their strongest. Dogs and cats with white or thin coats are particularly at risk of sunburn, which can cause skin cancer. Use pet-safe suncream on areas of ears with thinner hair and noses.
Watch what they eat
Be extra vigilant if you are having a barbecue in case your pet jumps up to grab the food. Onions and alcohol are big dangers. Corn on the cob can cause blockages or choking, while kebab skewers can cause nasty injuries, so keep them out of your pet’s reach.
