Overview
- The Met Office and health agencies have issued rare red and amber heat warnings for large parts of England and Wales, with forecasts of highs around 39–40°C on Wednesday and Thursday.
- The RSPCA is calling for a temporary 24–48 hour 'dog lockdown' that means keeping dogs indoors, avoiding walks and energetic play, and limiting outdoor time to brief toilet breaks if necessary.
- Practical guidance from charities and vets includes multiple fresh-water bowls, frozen treats or ice cubes to encourage drinking, cooling mats or paddling pools, good airflow and shaded resting spots.
- The RSPCA warns against specific risky measures: never leave dogs in hot cars, do not place damp towels directly over a dog’s body because they can trap heat, and follow the rule 'cool first, transport second' if heatstroke is suspected.
- Certain animals are at much higher risk—flat‑faced breeds, older, overweight or ill dogs—and charities note rising heatstroke cases in recent years, citing 355 suspected incidents handled by RSPCA and Inspiring Vet Care in 2025.