Dom
8 minute read
September 19, 2025
Summer Pet Safety in the UK: Essential Tips for Heatwaves and Hot Days
Worried about your pet during the UK's rising summer temperatures? Our comprehensive guide shares practical advice for keeping dogs and cats cool, hydrated, and safe during heatwaves and hot days. From must-have accessories to outdoor safety tips, discover how to enjoy the sunshine with your furry friend while prioritising their wellbeing. Plus, learn how a QR code pet ID tag can help you stay prepared for any summer adventures.
Why Summer Safety Matters for UK Pets
The British summertime can be unpredictable, but when the sun comes out, temperatures can soar. While we may love the warmth, our pets are at greater risk of heat-related illnesses and dehydration. Understanding key summer safety tips helps you keep your dog or cat healthy and happy throughout the hottest months.
Understanding the Risks
- Heatstroke: Dogs and cats can overheat quickly, especially brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds.
- Dehydration: Pets can become dehydrated faster in warm weather, even during short walks.
- Burnt paws: Hot pavements and sand can cause painful burns to sensitive paw pads.
- Sunburn: Light-coloured pets and those with thin fur are at increased risk.
- Lost pets: Open windows, garden gatherings, and more walks can mean more opportunities for pets to stray.
Top Tips for Keeping Your Pet Safe in the Heat
1. Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
- Always have several bowls of cool, clean water available indoors and outside.
- For cats, consider pet drinking fountains to encourage hydration.
- When travelling, take portable water bottles and collapsible bowls for your dog.
2. Never Leave Pets in Cars
- Even with windows open, car interiors can become dangerously hot in minutes.
- Plan journeys carefully. If you must travel, make stops as short as possible and never leave your pet unattended.
3. Adjust Walk Times
- Walk dogs during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening.
- Test pavements with your hand—if it is too hot for you, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.
4. Create Cool Spaces at Home
- Keep curtains closed and use fans to circulate air.
- Offer cool mats, damp towels, or even a shallow paddling pool for dogs to lounge on.
- Provide shaded areas in the garden.
5. Recognise Signs of Overheating
Know the symptoms of heatstroke in pets:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Lethargy or confusion
- Bright red tongue or gums
- Vomiting
- Loss of coordination
If you notice these, move your pet to a cool spot, offer small amounts of water, and call your vet immediately.
6. Practice Outdoor Safety
- Secure gardens to prevent escapes during BBQs or when doors are left open.
- Keep pets away from ponds, swimming pools, and garden chemicals.
- Be vigilant with open windows and doors, especially in flats or upper-storey homes.
7. Avoid Excessive Exercise
- Reduce intensity and duration of walks during heatwaves.
- Short-nosed and elderly dogs should have gentle exercise or playtime indoors.
Summer Travel and Lost Pet Preparedness
Summer means holidays, picnics, and day trips. Increased travel can also mean increased risk of pets getting lost. Preparation is key for peace of mind.
Lost Pet Prevention Checklist
| Task | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Check fences and gates | Prevents pets escaping during gatherings |
| Close windows and doors | Reduces risk of curious cats and dogs wandering |
| Update microchip details | Ensures quick contact if your pet is found |
| Use a secure pet ID tag with up-to-date contact info | Makes it easy for anyone who finds your pet to reach you |
| Add a QR code pet tag | Allows instant scanning and fast retrieval of your details |
With a QR code pet ID tag, anyone who finds your pet can instantly access your contact details by scanning the tag with their phone. This is especially helpful if you travel for summer holidays or visit busy outdoor spaces.
Cool Summer Accessories for Dogs and Cats
- Cooling mats and vests for dogs on the go
- Shaded pop-up tents for picnics or garden play
- Sun shades for windows and car journeys
- Pet-safe sunscreen for exposed skin (noses, ear tips)
- QR code pet ID tags for easy identification if your pet strays
Summer Foods and Treats: Dos and Don'ts
| Safe Summer Treats | Foods to Avoid |
|---|---|
| Ice cubes in water bowls | Chocolate and sweets |
| Frozen dog/cat treats (pet-safe only) | Grapes, raisins, onions, garlic |
| Fresh fruit (apples, watermelon - no seeds) | Corn on the cob (can cause blockages) |
| Cucumber slices | Bones from BBQs |
Always check that treats are pet-safe, especially during summer parties and picnics.
Summer Routine Checklist for UK Pet Owners
- Set reminders to change water bowls throughout the day
- Brush pets regularly to remove excess fur and prevent overheating
- Apply flea and tick treatments (these pests thrive in summer)
- Plan shaded routes and bring water on every outing
- Double-check your pet’s ID tag is scannable and up to date
FAQs: Summer Pet Safety in the UK
How do I know if my pet is overheating?
Watch for excessive panting, drooling, or confusion. Move your pet to a cool place and contact your vet if you are concerned.
Can I use a fan or air con for my dog or cat?
Yes. Fans and air conditioning can help cool the room. Make sure pets can move away if they get too cold.
How can a QR code pet tag help in summer?
With more time outdoors, it is easier for pets to wander off. A QR code pet ID tag helps anyone who finds your pet contact you quickly, giving you peace of mind during adventures.
Conclusion: Enjoy a Safe, Happy Summer
With a little extra care, you and your pet can make the most of the British summer. Hydration, shade, and up-to-date identification are essential for avoiding seasonal hazards. For the ultimate peace of mind, equip your pet with a scannable QR code pet ID tag and enjoy all your summer outings together.
For even more pet care tips and the latest in pet safety technology, visit Paw ID.