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BVA shares pet care advice amid UK heat warnings
Dogs are particularly at risk of overheating, and often experience heatstroke.
The UKHSA has issued amber heat health alerts across the country.

The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has published heatstroke advice ahead of soaring temperatures set to hit the UK this weekend.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued an amber heat health alert from Friday, 27 June to Tuesday, 1 July. Temperatures will be hottest on Sunday and Monday.

The organisation warns that veterinary practices will see an increase of heat-related conditions from pets. This may include heatstroke, burnt paw pads, sun burn and breathing difficulties.

Veterinary practices are encouraged to share vital pet care advice with their clients during the hot weather.

Dogs are at particular risk of overheating, as they can not cool down easily through sweating. BVA warns that a midday walk, or being shut in a hot car, could prove fatal.

Flat-faced breeds, such as pugs, will be at greater risk due to their difficulties breathing and panting. Overweight and densely coated dogs are also at increased risk.

BVA advises that all pets have access to fresh drinking water, ventilation and shade from sunlight at all times.

Dogs should not be exercised during the heat of the day, with walks and play limited to early mornings or late evenings if the weather is appropriate. They should never be left in cars, caravans or conservatories.

The signs of heatstroke include heavy panting, drooling, restlessness, bright red or pale gums, and a lack of coordination.

Rabbits may experience drooling, salivating, lethargy, short/shallow breaths, red ears, wet nose and seizures. Their hutches should be kept out of the sunlight, regardless of the time of day.

In cases of suspected heatstroke, the animal should be taken to a cool, well-ventilated place. They should be provided with cool (not ice-cold) water and have room-temperature water poured over them.

In 2022’s record-breaking heatwave, 51 per cent of veterinary professionals saw cases of animals with heat-related illnesses. Dogs were most commonly affected.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
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RCVS pays tribute to well-loved equine vet

The RCVS and the Riding Establishments Subcommittee has paid tribute to well-loved veterinary surgeon and riding establishment inspector, Rebecca Hamilton-Fletcher MRCVS.

Linda Belton MRCVS, RCVS President, said: "I, along with my colleagues on the RESC, RCVS Council, RCVS Standards Committee, as well as RCVS staff, was very saddened to hear of the sudden death of Rebecca, or Becca as we knew her, last week.

"She was a true advocate for equine welfare and in her many years on the RESC worked to continually improve the quality and consistency of riding establishment inspections, all in the interests of enhanced horse welfare and rider safety."