Dog owners have been issued an urgent warning by experts as temperatures rise and pets become more at risk of suffering from heatstroke.

The warning comes as the Met Office has forecasted temperatures as high as 30C for parts of the country this week.

Chief meteorologist Frank Saunders said large swathes of the UK will feel the heat up to the middle of the week.

Saunders explained: "Temperatures are likely to peak at around 32C in southeast England on Tuesday and Wednesday, with much of the UK experiencing dry, fine and warm conditions in the first half of the week."

Owners are being urged to be vigilant for the signs of heatstroke, as temperatures pose a serious risk to our pets if the necessary precautions aren’t taken.

These include not walking their dog during the hottest part of the day, never leaving their dog in a car (even with the windows down or with air conditioning), and ensuring their dog has access to water and a shaded area.

Agria, The Kennel Club’s pet insurance provider, has warned of the signs of heatstroke, which include:

  • Heavy panting, even when not exercising
  • Breathing problems
  • Tiredness
  • Stiffness
  • Dribbling
  • Confusion
  • Being sick, which can be bloody
  • Upset stomach, which can be bloody
  • Not walking in a straight line
  • Collapse
  • Fitting

Bill Lambert, The Kennel Club spokesman, said: “Unfortunately dogs aren’t as good at dealing with hot weather as we are – while we can sweat, dogs cool down by panting but that isn’t enough, and can even be fatal.  

“Not all owners are aware that it is just as dangerous to exercise their dogs in the heat of the day, as it is to leave them in a hot car - and this is especially true for those more at risk of heatstroke, such as overweight, elderly and flat-faced breeds.

“It is therefore vital to keep dogs cool this summer, and if showing signs of heatstroke, to get them to the vet as soon as possible.”  

Robin Hargreaves, Senior Veterinary Advisor at Agria Pet Insurance added, “If you suspect your pet has signs of heat stroke, then you should start the following first aid procedures immediately and consult your vet or your emergency out of hours service provider. Do not wait until symptoms develop further. The advice is: ‘Cool first, transport second’.”