
The great British summer has finally decided to show up – and it’s coming in hot. With temperatures set to soar across much of the UK this week, it’s not just us humans who need to take extra care. While we might enjoy a spot of sunbathing or a cheeky ice cream in the shade, our pets can find the heat uncomfortable, and in some cases, downright dangerous.
Whether you’ve got a sun-worshipping spaniel, a garden-hopping bunny or a house-proud Persian, keeping them cool, safe and happy in a heatwave takes more than opening a window and hoping for the best.
Here are our top tips to help pet parents beat the heat, without losing their cool:
Walk early or walk late
Avoid the midday sun – and we mean it. The pavement can get scorchingly hot and burn your dog’s paws. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their pads. Aim for early morning or after-sunset strolls, and stick to shaded routes and gentler exercise.
A quick test: place your palm on the pavement for five seconds. If it’s uncomfortable for you, it’s unsafe for them.
Hydration matters more than ever
Make sure fresh, cool water is always available – indoors and out. Add a few ice cubes to bowls and consider a second water dish in a cooler area of the home. If you’re out and about, carry a portable bowl or water bottle.
Water-rich snacks like cucumber or seedless melon can also help, as can pet-safe ice lollies made with chicken broth or tuna water. Keep an eye on cats and small pets, who can dehydrate quietly and quickly.
Never leave pets in hot cars – ever

It takes just six minutes for a dog to die in a hot car, even with the window cracked. If you’re popping to the shops, leave your pets at home in a cool room with water and shade.
On a 24°C day, a parked car can hit 38°C in under ten minutes – that’s enough to cause fatal heatstroke.
Cool the pads, not the pet
Avoid drenching your pet with icy water – it can cause shock and interfere with their natural temperature regulation. Instead, focus on gently cooling their paws, ears and belly.
Damp towels to lie on, cooling mats and shallow paddling pools are better options. You can also freeze a water bottle, wrap it in a towel, and leave it in their bed as a make-do chill pack.
Grooming makes a difference
Regular brushing helps remove dead hair and undercoat that can trap heat. This is especially important for thick-coated breeds. But don’t go too far – shaving a double-coated dog can actually increase heat retention and make matters worse.
When in doubt, check with your groomer or vet.
Frozen fun is the order of the day
For a bit of enrichment and refreshment, try making frozen treats. Blend pet-safe ingredients like banana, blueberries, chicken stock or plain yoghurt with water, freeze in moulds, and hand over with pride.
Our Cavaliers are rather partial to frozen blueberries and cold carrot sticks. Simple, sweet and safe.
Create a sanctuary of shade
Outdoor pets like rabbits and guinea pigs must have constant access to deep, natural shade. A hutch in partial sun isn’t enough. If possible, bring hutches indoors during the hottest part of the day.
Inside the home, keep curtains closed in sun-facing rooms and create a cool zone with a fan, ventilation and cool flooring.
Keep things calm and low key
The heat naturally slows everyone down – and that’s okay. Avoid boisterous play, long walks or intense training. Your pet may seem sleepier, fussier or more withdrawn than usual. Trust them to find their rhythm.
Cats may slink off to cool, quiet corners. Dogs might sprawl in front of the fridge. Go with it.
Know the signs of heatstroke
If your pet shows any of the following symptoms, act fast and contact your vet:
- Heavy panting or rapid breathing
- Bright red or pale gums
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Weakness or collapse
- Glassy eyes or confusion
Early intervention is vital. Move your pet to a cool area, offer water and dampen their paws and belly while awaiting veterinary advice.
Final word: be their shade
Our pets rely on us to make good decisions – and that’s never truer than in a heatwave. With a few small tweaks to your daily routine, you can keep them cool, hydrated and safe, while still enjoying the sunshine in sensible doses.
Here’s to safe sunbathing, shady walks and lots of frozen blueberries.