The animal welfare charity says keeping dogs indoors for a few days is much less harmful than the effects of heatstroke
RSPCA is warning about signs of heatstroke in dogs during the heatwave(Image: Submitted)
The RSPCA is calling for an immediate routine change for dog owners amid the hot weather. The charity’s animal welfare experts are recommending a ‘dog lockdown’ to safeguard pets by keeping them indoors and away from the extreme heat.
The call comes as parts of the country are under a red weather warning for extreme heat. An amber alert has been issued for part of the region by the Met Office which includes an area west of Hull including Goole and Snaith. The Met Office is predicting today (Thursday, June 25), will reach highs of 24C. Friday will be hotter yet with highs of 30C, and Saturday 29C.
Lauren Bennet, dog welfare expert at the RSPCA and a former veterinary nurse, said: “During a red weather warning, dog owners should think of it like a temporary lockdown for their pets. For the next 24-48 hours, routines need to immediately change. This isn’t the time for walks, chasing the ball or playing fetch, or exposing pooches to energetic exercise. It’s far better for dogs to miss a few walks completely than to suffer the potentially fatal consequences of overheating, or heatstroke. 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 – and 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 recommends moving exercise to the coolest possible times, or skip it altogether, and swapping exercise for mental stimulation. The heat could also potentially make dogs more irritable or frustrated, so be sure to keep an eye on their body language and give them space to allow them to keep cool on their own terms.
The RSPCA says to create cool zones throughout the home and refresh water regularly, offering it in multiple locations. Finally, a breeze can work wonders for your dog, so keep air moving. The charity is reminding dog owners to be aware of the signs of heatstroke in dogs , which 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
Lauren said: “These temperatures won’t last forever, but the decisions owners make over the next couple of days could have a lasting impact on their pets. For now, the message is simple: pause normal routines, prioritise keeping pets cool and comfortable, and wait until temperatures ease before returning to business as usual.”
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