It’s that time of year again where owners have to think carefully about how to keep their pets healthy and happy in the heat. Our week-long heatwave in April saw the RSPCA receive 241 calls concerning dogs suffering in the heat. But it doesn’t have to be a scary time. We have put together some top tips for keeping your pet safe in the hot weather.

Keeping your dog safe this summer

Remember the five second rule

Hot ground can be really painful for dogs during summer. But this rule is really simple to remember! Place the back of your hand on the ground, if you can’t keep it there comfortably for five seconds it’s too hot for your dog to walk on.

What to do if your dog has heatstroke

If your dog has collapsed, call a vet immediately. If it’s a milder case, there are steps you can take yourself, but you need to get your dog’s body temperature down gradually or they can go into shock. Here are the actions you should take:

1. Move the dog to a cool or shaded area.

2. Pour small amounts of room temperature (not cold) water onto the dog’s body until their breathing returns to normal, but not so much that they shiver. Wet towels and cool fans can also help.

3. Allow the dog to drink small amounts of room temperature water.

4. Call a vet once they’ve returned to normal so they can be checked over.

Dogs die in hot cars

Mayhew is a proud member of the Dogs Die In Hot Cars campaign group. Zoe Edwards, our Head of Animal Welfare, says: “Remember to check your destination is dog friendly before setting off. Temperatures inside a car can soar within minutes: never leave a dog in a car or subject them to long car journeys in the heat.

Sadly, while this is not a new warning, too many pet owners still don’t appreciate how dangerous it is to leave a dog in a car, caravan or conservatory. If you see a dog in a car on a hot dat, please call 999 immediately to report this to the police.”