LifestyleDogsThe RSPCA has issued an urgent warning to dog owners about the dangers of walking dogs in hot weather during the UK heatwave, so here's what you need to know10:27, 25 May 2026Brits are melting today because an ‘exceptional’ heatwave has it. Forecasters predicted a blistering 35C this Bank Holiday Monday, which is the hottest day in May of all time.‌Heatstroke is a huge problem on days like today, and members of the public are being urged to stay indoors and keep hydrated. However, it's not just ourselves, our friends and families we need to worry about.‌People with pets should also adjust their routines to keep them happy and safe. For dog owners, this means ditching daily walks and providing plenty of water.‌Failing to make changes like these can have devastating impacts – and the RSPCA has issued a stark warning about the subject. The charity posted a video to highlight how dangerous it is to ignore the guidance.The footage, so upsetting that it carries a TikTok warning, shows a dog gasping on a veterinary table as it frantically attempts to lower its body temperature.The distressed animal can be seen panting heavily while struggling to breathe, drooling excessively, and appearing wobbly and confused.‌Content cannot be displayed without consentThe RSPCA's vital advice reads: "Involving your pooch in your family outings may feel like the right thing to do this summer, but when the weather gets hot there are some considerations and practical steps that we must take to ensure our dog's health and welfare is always being prioritised."Dogs sadly die on hot walks. If in doubt, don't go out! Spotting the signs of overheating could mean the difference between life and death."‌Symptoms of heatstroke in dogsThe RSPCA outlined the warning signs to keep an eye out for, which include:Weakness, lethargy or collapsing in the heatConfusion or disorientationDehydrationDrooling more than usualIncreased heart rateMuscle spasmsPanting or noisy breathingRed gums and tongueSeizuresVomiting and diarrhoeaActions to take if your dog has heatstrokeBefore you rush your dog to the vet, make sure you have taken steps to cool them down. After all, putting pets in a hot car can exacerbate the problem.‌Initial steps include:Getting out of the sun immediatelyRestricting exercise or movementAvoiding hot vehicles or buildingsNext steps are:‌Using cold water to cool your pet from the neck down. Just avoid pouring directly onto the head, which can negatively impact breathingFor senior dogs, mist them with cool water and don't submerge them. You can use half-filled paddling pools or baths for younger dogs – just make sure the water is cooler than body temperature but not ice coldCreating a breeze by fanning your dogTransport to a vet:Call your vet while cooling your dog down, as they can give advice and prepare to treat themOnce your dog is cooler, transport them to a vet in a well-ventilated vehicleBe sure to provide your pet with plenty of water during the journeyStay calm and focused – taking these steps can save your dog's life.Article continues belowFor more advice, visit the RSPCA website or call your vet for bespoke advice.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌RSPCAHeatwaveAnimalsDogs