A–Z topic · H
Hot weather pet safety
Quick answer
In UK heatwaves, walk dogs at dawn or dusk, **never leave pets in cars**, and keep rabbits and guinea pigs cool in shade. Heatstroke is an emergency for every species. Avoid letting dogs swim in water with blue-green algae — it can be fatal.
Key takeaways
- Heavy panting, drooling, collapse, vomiting, bright red gums, or uncoordinated movement. Heatstroke is an emergency — cool with tepid (not ice-cold) water and contact a vet immediately.
- Never. UK car interiors reach lethal temperatures within minutes even with windows cracked. Call 999 if you see a dog in distress in a hot car.
- Yes. Rabbits overheat above roughly 25°C and are at high risk of flystrike if rear fur becomes soiled and damp. Move hutches to shade, provide frozen water bottles, and check twice daily.
The full guide
Causes, symptoms, treatment options and when to call your vet — in the complete plain-English guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are signs of heatstroke in dogs?
- Heavy panting, drooling, collapse, vomiting, bright red gums, or uncoordinated movement. Heatstroke is an emergency — cool with tepid (not ice-cold) water and contact a vet immediately.
- Can I leave my dog in a car on a warm day?
- Never. UK car interiors reach lethal temperatures within minutes even with windows cracked. Call 999 if you see a dog in distress in a hot car.
- Are rabbits at risk in summer?
- Yes. Rabbits overheat above roughly 25°C and are at high risk of flystrike if rear fur becomes soiled and damp. Move hutches to shade, provide frozen water bottles, and check twice daily.