Hot weather can be uncomfortable for all of us — but for pets, extreme heat can be dangerous and even life-threatening. On days over 35–40°C, dogs and cats can overheat very quickly, especially if they are exercised, left outdoors, or unable to cool themselves effectively. 
Below are some simple but important tips to help keep your pets safe during heatwaves, and what to do if you’re concerned your pet has been affected by the heat.
‼️Why Heat Is So Dangerous for Pets
Unlike humans, dogs and cats can’t sweat to cool themselves. Dogs rely mostly on panting, which becomes much less effective in extreme heat. Certain pets are at higher risk, including:
- Brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds (e.g. Bulldogs, Pugs, Persian cats)
- Puppies and kittens
- Senior pets
- Overweight pets
- Pets with heart or respiratory disease
However, any pet can suffer heat stress if conditions are hot enough.
💦 How to Keep Your Pet Cool
On hot days, prevention is key:
- Keep pets indoors during the hottest parts of the day
- Ensure constant access to fresh, cool water (top up regularly)
- Use air-conditioning, fans, or cool tiled floors where possible
- Provide shade at all times if pets must be outside
- Offer cooling aids such as damp towels or cooling mats (if tolerated)
🔥Exercise & Hot Pavement
- Avoid walks during the heat of the day — early morning is always safest
- Remember that pavement and concrete retain heat, and can remain hot well into the afternoon and evening, even after air temperatures drop
- A good rule of thumb: if you can’t comfortably hold your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for paws
🚗 Never Leave Pets in Cars
Even on milder days, cars can heat up within minutes. On hot days, temperatures inside a vehicle can become fatal very quickly — even with windows cracked. Never leave pets unattended in cars.
🚨Signs of Heat Stress or Heatstroke
Contact your vet urgently if your pet shows any of the following signs:
- Heavy or excessive panting
- Drooling or thick saliva
- Lethargy or weakness
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Wobbliness, disorientation or collapse
- Seizures or unresponsiveness
✅ What to Do If You’re Worried
If you think your pet is overheating:
- Move them to a cool, shaded or air-conditioned area immediately
- Offer small amounts of cool water (do not force drinking)
- Use cool (not ice-cold) water on paws, belly and ears if needed
- Contact your vet as soon as possible — heatstroke is an emergency and early treatment saves lives
☎️ When in Doubt, Call Us
If you’re unsure whether your pet is coping with the heat, it’s always better to be cautious. Our team is here to help and provide advice or urgent care if needed.
Stay cool, stay safe, and please look out for your pets during extreme heat.