Dog lockdown only way dogs can beat the heat, says RSPCA

The RSPCA is calling on dog owners to implement an urgent routine change, with more extreme hot weather forecast across England and Wales.

The charity is urging dog owners to prepare for another spell of high temperatures. It says that even without the extreme 35°C highs seen in June, upcoming conditions could still be hazardous for pets.

‘Dog lockdown’

Pet experts are recommending a ‘dog lockdown’ for the hottest coming days. They’re highlighting that temperatures in the high 20s still pose a serious threat to pets and owners should treat the conditions with caution.

The call comes as the Met Office predicts inland temperatures will rise again from 6 June with parts of England potentially reaching low 30s°C (80°F) in the South East.

Dr Samantha Gaines, dog welfare expert at the RSPCA, said:

Whenever temperatures rise we must think about the impact on our pets. While the recent extreme heat was tough for everyone, we must be careful not to become complacent as warmer temperatures return.

Just because we’ve become accustomed to the higher temperatures, it doesn’t mean our pets are any less affected.

We need to take extra precautions regardless of an official weather warning, which is why we’re still recommending a temporary ‘dog lockdown’ during this next bout of very hot weather- it’s the only way to beat the heat.

Gaines advises dog owners to think of the extreme weather like a temporary lockdown for their pets. This includes skipping walks, not chasing the ball or playing fetch, or exposing pooches to energetic exercise.

She advises it’s far better for dogs to miss a few walks completely than to suffer the potentially fatal consequences of overheating, or heatstroke. Gaines continued:

One of the biggest risks during periods of extreme heat is treating them like any other summer day.

We’re urging dog owners to make this a Summer of Kindness. Focus on keeping dogs cool, comfortable and calm at home until temperatures start to ease. Fresh water, air flow, shade and mental enrichment can make all the difference during this intense period of extreme heat.

The charity says owners should be ready to change their normal routines and prioritise keeping pets cool, calm and comfortable until temperatures ease. It offers these five tips:

Five tips to keep your dog safe

Move exercise to the coolest possible times – or skip it altogether.

These are not normal summer temperatures. For many dogs missing a walk for a day or two is far safer than risking overheating. If you don’t have access to a garden, nip your dogs out briefly to the nearest grassy area for them to toilet and head straight back into the cool.

Swap physical exercise for mental stimulation.

Your dog may naturally want to sleep more during hot weather. But when they are awake you can encourage them to use puzzle feeders and snuffle mats, or play calm gentle training games and scent work indoors. This can be a great temporary substitute for outdoor time.

The heat could also potentially make dogs more irritable or frustrated. Be sure to keep an eye on their body language and give them space to allow them to keep cool on their own terms.

Create cool zones throughout the home.

Keeping your home as cool as possible is key. Close curtains on sunny rooms, use fans safely, provide access to cooler floors and let dogs choose where they rest. Consider laying out a special dog cooling mat, or a cold damp towel, for your dog to lie on.

Refresh water regularly and offer it in multiple locations.

Instead of having just one bowl of water available, offer fresh water throughout the day in multiple bowls around the home and garden. You can consider adding one or two ice cubes where appropriate.

Keep air moving.

A breeze can work wonders to make your dog (and you!) feel more comfortable and ease the discomfort of extreme heat. Open windows when safe to create airflow through the home. Use fans where suitable and close off stuffy conservatories and enclosed spaces.

Make it a kind summer

Gaines added:

These temperatures won’t last forever, but the decisions owners make over the next week could have a lasting impact on their pets.

For now, the message continues: pause normal routines, prioritise keeping pets cool and comfortable, and wait until temperatures ease again before returning to business as usual.

The charity is reminding dog owners to be aware of the signs of heatstroke in dogs. Heatstroke can be a ‘silent killer’ if not prevented, or treated immediately.

The RSPCA and Inspiring Vet Care – the UK’s largest veterinary group, have released new figures showing that their vets dealt with 355 incidents related to suspected heatstroke in 2025. 66% (234) of all cases came over the summer months. That’s more than two incidents a day.

The RSPCA is urging people to choose kindness this summer and make a difference for animals. By joining the charity’s Summer of Kindness, animal lovers can take on Seven Acts of Kindness. These are easy, family-friendly and can make a real difference.

Featured image via the Canary