Overview
- Yellow heat-health alerts issued by the Met Office and UKHSA cover parts of southern and eastern England through Monday with forecasts of low 30s°C and local peaks near 34°C.
- Officials and charities are advising owners to walk dogs only early in the morning or late in the evening, test pavement heat with a hand for five to seven seconds, and never leave animals in cars.
- Veterinary clinics warn that heavy panting, drooling, restlessness or collapse are emergency signs and that pets should be cooled and taken to a vet if they do not improve within minutes.
- Experts caution against using ice-cold water on overheated animals, recommending lukewarm water, shaded or air-conditioned spaces, and close monitoring because complications can appear 24–48 hours later.
- High-risk animals include flat-faced breeds, very young, old, overweight or sick pets, and owners may face more vet visits and altered daily routines as warmer, humid conditions persist.