SOMERSET dog owners have been urged to “be cautious” with their furry friends ahead of an expected heatwave in the next few weeks, following a few days of high humidity weather with 25C heat in recent days.

The PDSA has issued some helpful steps to ensure your pooch isn’t in danger in the summer period of this year. Dog owners are especially being told to be careful when exercising with their furry friends in the heat.

Yesterday was the hottest day of 2024 in the UK with temperatures as high as 34.8C in Cambridge.

PDSA Vet nurse Gemma Renwick said: “We know how important exercise is to keep a dog’s body and mind healthy. However, in a nation where hot weather isn’t the norm, owners aren’t always aware of how to exercise pets safely.

“While there is a danger of over-exercising in warmer weather, there are ways to keep your furry friend safe while being active in the heat.”

The PDSA has made some advice available on how to keep your dog safe in the heat, which you can find online, as well as recommending a few simple things you can do to look after your dog this summer.

Heatstroke – symptoms and what to do

Cooling down your dog immediately when realising your pooch has symptoms of heatstroke is essential to ensure they feel comfortable as soon as possible.

Gemma says: “If your pet shows any symptoms such as heavy panting, seeming lethargic or confused, having excessive drooling or foaming at the mouth, vomiting or diarrhoea, shaking, weakness or even seizures, you should call them down immediately and call a vet.

“Never delay cooling your dog down. While contacting the vets, move your pet to a cool, shady area and allow them to stand on something cool like a wet towel or a cooling mat.

“Allow your pet to drink small amounts of water and pour cold water over them, tap water is fine. Also, consider using a fan to allow a breeze and continue cooling on the way to the vet.”

Pick your time carefully

Whether you wake up early or have work in the day, it is recommended that you take your dog for a walk before 8am and after 8pm when it is very hot.

Gemma said: “Take extra care to avoid the midday sun between 12pm and 3pm, as this is when your dog is most at risk of overheating.

“When out, keep to a slow and steady pace to reduce the risk of exhaustion, while still allowing them to enjoy the sights and smells of being outdoors.”

Take a dip with care

Trying to let your dog cool off by letting them go for a swim seems like a good idea, but according to Gemma, this still counts as exercise.

“It’s crucial to keep water safely in mind – whether that’s the sea, lakes, rivers or swimming pools, and remember never to force your furry friend to swim if they don’t want to,” said Gemma.

Chillout tricks

There are many ways to help keep your pup comfortable on a hot day such as filling up a shallow paddling pool or a washing up bowl with cold water that can help give your dog a much-needed chance to cool their paws.

“Creating a cool room for your pet to have time out if the weather becomes too much can also help – here you can set up a fan or an area with damp towels while also freezing their toys to give them great relief," Gemma said.