- The RSPCA has issued a warning to dog owners as the UK deals with record heat, labeling walks in hot weather as a "silent killer" and advising against taking dogs out, especially in areas lacking shade.
- “While the majority would never leave our dogs in a car on a hot day, or even take our dogs for a really long walk in the heat, many people may still be putting their dogs at risk even on a short walk, or taking them to places such as fields and beaches with little or no shade,” a RSPCA spokesperson said.
- “We have long-campaigned that dogs die in hot cars, but this year we’re highlighting that dogs die on hot walks, too. The message remains very simple – never leave a dog in a hot car because ‘not long’ is too long, and when it comes to walks, ‘if in doubt, don’t go out.’”
- Separately, the Blue Cross animal charity cautioned cat owners about open windows after a kitten sustained injuries from a fall, recommending keeping cats indoors during peak heat and using protective measures like wire mesh on windows.
- General advice for pet owners includes keeping pets hydrated and cool. “Some people put a wet towel over the top of their dog, but that can actually trap the heat underneath, so don’t do that,” Sue Ketland, dog behaviour and training specialist at Woodgreen Pets Charity said. “Let them lay on the towel instead.”
IN FULL
Why you should never put a damp towel over your dog – and 10 ways to keep them cool
