As temperatures soar across the UK, the British Veterinary Association (BVA) is warning pet owners to take extra care of their pets after almost two-thirds of vets (64%) reported treating animals being affected by heat-related conditions during last summer’s record-breaking heat.

BVA’s Autumn 2018 Voice of the Veterinary Profession survey found that half of the vets had treated animals for heat stroke (51%) while more than one in three (36%) had seen animals requiring treatment for other conditions relating to hot weather, like breathing difficulties, heart conditions, burnt paw pads and sunburn.

BVA junior vice president Daniella Dos Santos said that dogs may particularly struggle to stay cool in high temperatures and humid conditions since, unlike humans, they are unable to cool down quickly through sweating, making them vulnerable to overheating.

She said: “While most of us look forward to warmer weather, our pets can suffer in high temperatures and humid conditions. Each year, vets across the country report seeing large numbers of cases involving pets who require treatment for heat-related conditions.

“We’re advising owners to take some simple steps to ensure that their much-loved pets also stay happy and healthy this summer. Even relatively lower temperatures at the start and end of a summer day can prove uncomfortable for our pets, especially if they are kept in direct sunlight without any shade.”