RSPCA gives top tips for keeping pets cool in heatwave

With temperatures set to remain around 25C the charity has warned how it receives hundreds of reports each year about animala suffering from heat exposure.

From dogs getting dehydrated and burnt paws, to wild animals unable to find shade, the sizzling heat can seriously harm animals if not handled correctly.

A dog leaping into water

Here are 10 tips from the RSPCA to protect your furry or feathered friend:

• Ensure animals have constant access to shade and fresh drinking water at all times.
• For animals that are kept outside, remember that as the sun moves during the day so too does the shade - somewhere that was shaded in the morning could be in full sun by the afternoon.
• Check small animals, poultry and other animals twice a day for flystrike.
• Keep fish tanks out of direct sunlight and top up water levels of ponds.
• Keep an eye out for wildlife when using lawnmowers or strimmers.
• Keep pesticides out of reach of animals.
• Wrap an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel, or use damp towels for your animal companion to lie on.
• Freeze your dog’s water bowl or kong, or add ice cubes to your pet’s bowl.
• Fill a paddling pool or spray a hose for your dog to play in but always supervise them around water.
• Leave a bowl of fresh drinking water in your garden for birds and other wildlife.
• Walk or ride in the morning or evening when it’s cooler.

Dogs playing in a body of water