RSPCA issues urgent 'dog lockdown' advice as new UK heatwave set to hit 34C

RSPCA issues urgent 'dog lockdown' advice as new UK heatwave set to hit 34C The RSPCA is urging dog owners to be prepared for another spell of high temperatures The RSPCA is urging dog owners to make an urgent change to their routines this coming week, as forecasters predict another spell of extreme hot weather across England and Wales. The animal welfare charity is asking pet owners to brace themselves for rising temperatures, cautioning that even without the scorching highs recorded last month, the forthcoming conditions remain extremely dangerous for animals. According to the Met Office, temperatures are expected to climb to 29C on Sunday, then reach the low 30s next week before peaking at 34C on Thursday or Friday across the South East. Animal welfare specialists are advising a 'dog lockdown' over the coming days, stressing that temperatures in the high 20s continue to present a genuine risk to pets and must be handled with utmost care. Dr Samantha Gaines, dog welfare expert at the RSPCA, said: "Whenever temperatures rise we must think about the impact on our pets. While the recent extreme heat was tough for everyone, we must be careful not to become complacent as warmer temperatures return. Just because we've become accustomed to the higher temperatures, it doesn't mean our pets are any less affected. "We need to take extra precautions regardless of an official weather warning, which is why we're still recommending a temporary 'dog lockdown' during this next bout of very hot weather- it's the only way to beat the heat." Sam advised that dog owners should think of the extreme weather like a temporary lockdown for their pets - including skipping walks, not chasing the ball or playing fetch, or exposing pooches to energetic exercise. She advises it's far better for dogs to miss a few walks completely than to suffer the potentially fatal consequences of overheating, or heatstroke. "One of the biggest risks during periods of extreme heat is treating them like any other summer day," Sam continued. "We're urging dog owners to make this a Summer of Kindness - and focus on keeping dogs cool, comfortable and calm at home until temperatures start to ease. Fresh water, air flow, shade and mental enrichment can make all the difference during this intense period of extreme heat." RSPCA advice for dog owners during UK heatwave The charity urged owners to be prepared to alter their usual routines and prioritise keeping pets cool, calm and comfortable until temperatures ease, offering five key tips. Move exercise to the coolest possible times - or skip it altogether These are not normal summer temperatures and for many dogs, missing a walk for a day or two is far safer than risking overheating. If you don't have access to a garden, nip your dogs out briefly to the nearest grassy area for them to toilet and head straight back into the cool. Swap physical exercise for mental stimulation Your dog may naturally want to sleep more during hot weather, but when they are awake you can encourage them to use puzzle feeders and snuffle mats, or play calm gentle training games and scent work indoors. This can be a great temporary substitute for outdoor time. The heat could also potentially make dogs more irritable or frustrated, so be sure to keep an eye on their body language and give them space to allow them to keep cool on their own terms. Create cool zones throughout the home Keeping your home as cool as possible is key. Close curtains on sunny rooms, use fans safely, provide access to cooler floors and let dogs choose where they rest. Consider laying out a special dog cooling mat, or a cold damp towel, for your dog to lie on. Refresh water regularly and offer it in multiple locations Instead of having just one bowl of water available, offer fresh water throughout the day in multiple bowls around the home and garden. You can consider adding one or two ice cubes where appropriate. Keep air moving A breeze can work wonders to make your dog (and you!) feel more comfortable and ease the discomfort of extreme heat. Open windows when safe to create airflow through the home. Use fans where suitable and close off stuffy conservatories and enclosed spaces. Sam added: "These temperatures won't last forever, but the decisions owners make over the next week could have a lasting impact on their pets. For now, the message continues: pause normal routines, prioritise keeping pets cool and comfortable, and wait until temperatures ease again before returning to business as usual." The charity is reminding dog owners to be aware of the signs of heatstroke in dogs, which can be a 'silent killer' if not prevented, or treated immediately. The RSPCA and inspiring vet care - the UK's largest veterinary group, have released new figures showing that their vets dealt with 355 incidents related to suspected heatstroke in 2025, with 66% (234) of all cases over the summer months; that's more than two incidents a day. The RSPCA is urging people to choose kindness this summer and make a difference for animals. By joining the charity's Summer of Kindness, animal lovers can take on Seven Acts of Kindness that are easy, family-friendly and make a real difference.