RSPCA urges dog owners to keep pets indoors amid heatwave

The RSPCA has issued an urgent call for a temporary "dog lockdown" as a severe heatwave triggers red weather warnings across parts of the UK. The animal welfare charity is advising owners to keep their pets indoors and suspend all normal exercise routines for the next 48 hours to prevent potentially fatal heatstroke.

The Met Office has issued red extreme heat warnings, with temperatures forecast to reach 37C in some regions and potentially climb to 39C or higher. The UK Health Security Agency has also activated heat-health alerts. Officials, including Wales's First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth, have warned that the country could see record-breaking temperatures.

In response, RSPCA dog welfare expert Lauren Bennett emphasized that during a red warning, owners should treat the situation as a temporary lockdown for their pets. She stated that for the next 24 to 48 hours, routines must change immediately, and it is far safer for dogs to miss walks altogether than risk overheating. The charity urges owners to focus on keeping dogs cool, comfortable, and calm at home until the intense heat subsides.

The RSPCA provided specific guidance for safeguarding pets. Key recommendations include...