A vet has issued an urgent warning to dog owners as hot weather continues across the UK - revealing many people are still following outdated heatstroke advice that could actually put their pets in danger09:31, 29 May 2026A vet has issued an urgent warning to dog owners during the UK heatwave, revealing one common mistake people make while trying to cool their pets down could actually be making things far worse. The expert, who is known online as Things Can Only Get Vetter, explained that dangerous myths surrounding heatstroke treatment continue to spread every summer - despite the potentially deadly consequences.‌In a video shared online, the vet said: "These heatstroke treatment mistakes kill dogs every summer." According to the expert, one of the biggest misconceptions owners still believe is that dogs should only be cooled using tepid or room-temperature water. But the vet insisted that advice is outdated.‌Instead, they explained owners should begin cooling their dog immediately using cold water before transporting them to the vets.‌The vet said: "The risk factor for internal organ damage and death is the amount of time the dog spends overheated."Because of this, they stressed that first aid at home is absolutely crucial. For younger dogs, the expert explained full immersion in cold water can help rapidly reduce body temperature.Meanwhile, older dogs should be hosed down or have cold water poured over them instead.‌The vet explained the most important thing is helping cold water evaporate from the dog’s body, as this removes heat far more effectively.They also recommended using a fan whenever possible to speed up the cooling process.Content cannot be displayed without consent‌"A breeze is gonna help take that evaporating water away," they explained.However, it was another popular heatwave trick that prompted the strongest warning.The vet urged owners to stop covering overheated dogs in cold wet towels, warning it can actually trap heat against the body instead of releasing it.‌They said: "That creates an insulating layer. It traps all the heat. It can make things far worse."Once owners have started cooling their dog down, the expert stressed the next step should always be getting emergency veterinary treatment as quickly as possible.Heatstroke in dogs can quickly become life-threatening, even with treatment.‌The vet warned the condition carries a mortality rate of between 34 and 64 percent.At the vets, overheated dogs can receive fluids and emergency care designed to reduce the risk of organ failure and other serious complications.Commenting on the post, one owner said: "At 70k, my dogs do not go out before 11pm at night for walks in the warmer months. Thankfully, we live in an old stone house so it's very cool in the heat."Article continues belowAnother user added: "Massive thank you for providing this life saving advice! We really appreciate you sharing our work and helping owners protect their pets."A third user said: "Been trying to spread this for two years now. Thank you."