THE RSPCA has warned dog owners of tell-tale signs that your pooch is struggling in the hot weather.
A change in your furry friend's pad paws is just one of many signs that you're not keeping your pet cool enough.
If your pooch is struggling or refusing to walk, licking or chewing troubled spots or experiencing blisters or redness, you're better off leaving them at home.
Pets are also vulnerable to heatstroke which can trigger a slew of unpleasant symptoms.
Man's best friend can battle breathing difficulties, excessive drooling and intense drowsiness when the baking heat strikes.
In more extreme cases, dogs have reportedly collapsed or vomited as their bodies struggle with the conditions.
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It comes after the Met Office said temperatures could creep "into the realm of heatwave conditions" later this week.
Beachgoers have flocked to the sand as "unseasonably warm" temperatures soar and Saharan dust sweeps across Britain this week.
Figures could reach as high as 32C tomorrow, with walkers even resorting to using umbrellas to shade themselves from the sun and heat.
Officials cautioned that vulnerable people – like the elderly, young children and those with health conditions – were at increased risk of dying until at least Sunday.
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Elsewhere, one vet took to TikTok to spread a similar message for dog owners ahead of the previous heatwave in June.
So if you plan on taking your pooch out for a walk or want to let them roam around the garden in the summer sun, be sure to prick your ears up again.
WAYS TO LOOK AFTER YOUR DOG IN HOT WEATHER
- Never leave dogs in hot cars, conservatories, outbuildings or caravans on a warm day (even if only for a short while). When it's 22°C outside, temperatures can quickly rise to 47°C (117°F) in these environments, which can be fatal.
- Use pet-safe sun cream on exposed parts of your pet's skin, such as the tips of their ears and nose, to avoid sunburn. This is especially important if your dog has white or light-coloured fur, as they can be very vulnerable to getting burnt. If you're unsure which is the right product to use, please ask your vet.
- Ensure pets always have access to shade and fresh drinking water to help keep them cool.
- Check every day for flystrike – this can be fatal.
- Put ice cubes into your dog's water bowl or make some tasty ice cube treats. You could also freeze a kong with treats and water!
- Give your pet damp towels to lie on (never place a damp towel over your dog as this can trap in heat) or an ice pack wrapped in a towel. Both simple methods could provide welcome relief from the heat
- If you're planning a day out with your dog, check before leaving home whether dogs are allowed. If they're not, arrange a pet-sitter or choose another, dog-friendly attraction.
- Groom them regularly – regular grooming in warmer weather can help brush away any dead or excess hair, leaving your dog with a less dense coat – much better for staying cool!
- Dogs may also appreciate a paddling pool to splash around in, although not all dogs like water, so there's no need to force them if they don't want to!
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