Vets issue hot weather warning
Dogs are particularly vulnerable to heat-related problems.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has urged people to take extra precautions to protect their pets this weekend as temperatures rise.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber alert for the Midlands and the eastern and southern England. Temperatures could get as high as 30C.
A less severe yellow warning has been put in place for London and the north of England. The warnings will remain in place from Friday, 9 June until Monday, 12 June.
Dogs, in particular, can struggle in high temperatures. Brachycephalic dogs are most at risk as their flat faces can make it more difficult for them to cool down through panting.
BVA junior vice-president Anna Judson said: “Each year, vets across the country report seeing large numbers of cases involving dogs who require treatment for heat-related conditions.
“Dogs won’t stop playing and running because it is hot, so owners need to take action to prevent them overheating. This includes making sure pets aren’t walked or exercised during the heat of the day or left inside a car, caravan or conservatory, even for a little while, as ‘not long’ can prove fatal.”
The latest statistics from BVA’s Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey revealed that heat-related illness were a common problem seen by vets during the summer of 2022.
Half of vets surveyed (51 per cent) saw cases of animals needing treatment for heat-related illness. Dogs were the most commonly seen animal, followed by rabbits and cats.
During this weekend's high temperatures, all pets will need to have constant access to fresh drinking water and shade from direct sunlight. The BVA has also suggested leaving out bowls of water for wildlife such as birds and hedgehogs.
Dr Judson added: “Here in the UK we get very excited by the promise of a bit of lovely, sunny weather but we mustn’t forget that animals can struggle when temperatures heat up.
“These new figures are a stark reminder to pet owners to take extra precautions this weekend, to ensure their pets are cool, hydrated, and safe from the sun. Make sure pets have access to fresh drinking water, good ventilation and shade from direct sunlight at all times and call your vet immediately in case of any concerns about their health.”
The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) has updated its online reporting service for dead wild birds.
