Overview

• Even brief periods in parked cars can be lethal as interior temperatures soar within minutes, animal welfare charities warn.
• Pavements can exceed 50 °C on days above 25 °C, so owners should use the RSPCA’s five-second pavement test before walks.
• Brachycephalic breeds, older dogs and overweight pets struggle to cool down efficiently and face the highest heatstroke risk.
• Key signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy and collapse, and require immediate cooling and veterinary care.
• Experts recommend walking dogs early in the morning or late evening and providing shade, water and cooling mats to prevent overheating.