Pet owners are being urged to implement a 48-hour "dog lockdown" as the latest heatwave grips the UK.
The RSPCA has urged those with dogs not to take them for walks outside, with temperatures forecast to reach nearly 40C in some places.
The Met Office has issued a rare red heat alert for much of central and south England, as well as parts of the UK.
Much more of the country has an amber warning issued, with "exceptionally warm temperatures" predicted for "both day and night".
Our Extreme Heat warning is now active for much of southern and central England and Wales, with Amber warnings now also extending into Friday and Saturday for some.
Read more 👇https://t.co/B7wUQco4Uu pic.twitter.com/luk0T7zZaL— Met Office (@metoffice) June 24, 2026
RSPCA issues 'dog lockdown' warning amid UK heatwave this week
The RSPCA, which is the largest animal welfare charity in the UK, has told owners to have a "dog lockdown" in place during the heatwave this week.
They said: "With a red weather warning for heat in place across England and Wales, we're urging dog owners to put their pooches into a temporary 'dog lockdown' for the next 48 hours.
"Temperatures could reach around 39C on Wednesday and Thursday, so now is the time to change routines and protect dogs from the extreme heat.
"Our experts recommend keeping dogs indoors as much as possible and avoiding walks, fetch, ball games and other energetic exercise.
"Missing a few walks is far safer than risking heatstroke.
"Please help us keep dogs safe and share to raise awareness."
When is it too hot to walk your dog?
While there is no simple answer, Dog's Trust says that tests can be done to see if it is too hot.
The first is the five-second tarmac test, where owners can check the pavement with their hand before letting their dog walk on it.
They said, "Hold your hand down for five seconds, if it’s too hot for you, then we recommend walking your dog later when it’s cooled down to avoid burning their paws."
It is also advised to walk your dog at cooler times of the day, early in the morning or late at night, as this reduces the risk of heatstroke.
Dog's Trust adds: "Be particularly careful if your dog is old, overweight, suffers from breathing difficulties or is a flat-faced breed like Pugs, French Bulldogs or English Bulldogs."
Certain dogs are also most at risk of overheating, according to the RSPCA.
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These are dogs with existing health conditions, flat-faced breeds and those with thick coats are more at risk of overheating.
All of these could even struggle in relatively cool spring weather after a cold winter.
What do you do with your dog when it is too hot to walk it outside? Let us know in the comments.
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