Specialists warns pet owners to avoid one summer snack this week as temperatures hit 35C13:09, 08 Jul 2026Pet owners are being urged not to give their dogs one common 'cooling' summer treat during the heatwave. Specialists warn it could leave animals unwell at a time when they are already struggling with the heat.‌The warning comes as parts of the UK continue to face very hot weather, with the Met Office forecasting highs of up to 34C in London and the South East on Wednesday, July 8, and up to 35C on Thursday, July 9. The Met Office has said temperatures will remain 'well above average' in some areas, with heatwave conditions expected to persist in southern parts of the country.‌While many owners are already avoiding midday dog walks, checking pavements and keeping water bowls topped up, experts say food choices are often forgotten during hot spells. In particular, treats that seem refreshing to humans, such as ice cream, ice lollies and BBQ leftovers, can be risky for pets.‌Scott Cieslar, animal nutrition specialist at Mad Barn, has warned that ice cream is one of the summer snacks owners should avoid giving to dogs, even if it feels like a quick way to help them cool down. Scott said: "It is completely understandable that owners want to help their pets cool down during a heatwave. But human treats are not always safe for animals."Ice cream is one of the most common examples. It might look harmless, especially if a dog is panting or sitting beside you in the garden, but it can be high in sugar and fat, and many dogs do not digest dairy well. In some pets, even a small amount can lead to an upset stomach, diarrhoea, vomiting or discomfort.‌"The bigger concern is that some frozen desserts, low-sugar products or homemade lollies may contain ingredients that are dangerous to pets, including xylitol, chocolate, raisins or certain flavourings. So while it may feel like a cooling treat, it can create another problem at exactly the wrong time."Instead, owners are being advised to stick to pet-safe cooling methods. These include fresh water, shaded rest areas, damp towels, cooling mats and small frozen portions of pet-safe foods where appropriate.Scott added: "The safest way to cool a pet is not usually through a sugary treat. Fresh water, shade and rest are much more important. If you want to offer something frozen, keep it simple and pet-safe. For dogs, that could mean a few pieces of plain cucumber, a small amount of frozen carrot, or their normal food frozen into a slow-feeder toy, as long as it suits their usual diet.‌"The key rule is to avoid experimenting during a heatwave. Sudden changes in food, rich treats and leftovers can all upset the digestive system, and that can make dehydration more of a concern."Owners have also been warned to be careful with BBQ foods, which can be particularly tempting for pets during summer gatherings. Sausages, burgers, chicken skin, salty crisps, sauces and marinades can be too fatty or salty, while onion, garlic, chives and leeks are known to be dangerous to dogs.‌Blue Cross lists several common foods as poisonous to dogs, including chocolate, grapes, raisins, currants, onions, garlic, chives, leeks and xylitol. Scott said: "A lot of heatwave pet problems happen because owners are trying to be kind. They give the dog a bit of ice cream, a sausage from the BBQ or a lick of a lolly because they think it is only a small amount."But pets are much smaller than us, and ingredients that are fine for people can be unsafe for them. Grapes and raisins are a good example, as they are often found in summer picnic foods, fruit salads, cakes and snacks. Chocolate desserts, sugar-free treats, onion-based dips and heavily salted foods should also be kept well away from pets."The warning applies particularly to dogs, but cat owners are also encouraged to take care in hot weather. PDSA says cats can struggle in high temperatures too, especially older cats, kittens, overweight cats and flat-faced breeds, and advises owners to provide shaded areas and plenty of fresh water around the home.‌RSPCA advice also notes that dogs are at high risk of heatstroke because they lose heat through panting and can only sweat through their paws. The charity says flat-faced breeds, including pugs, French bulldogs, Shih Tzus and Boxers, are particularly vulnerable in hot weather.Scott said: "Nutrition is only one part of heatwave care, but it matters. During hot weather, some pets may eat less than usual, and that is not always a concern if they are otherwise bright, drinking normally and behaving as expected. However, if a pet stops eating completely, becomes lethargic, vomits, has diarrhoea, pants heavily, drools excessively, appears weak or seems confused, owners should contact a vet.Article continues below"Do not try to solve heat stress with food. If an animal is overheating, treats are not the answer. Move them somewhere cool, offer water, reduce activity immediately and seek veterinary advice if you are worried."Scott says owners should also avoid leaving wet food or raw food sitting out in the heat, as it can spoil more quickly and attract flies. Any uneaten food should be removed promptly, and water bowls should be refreshed regularly throughout the day.Scott added: "A good heatwave rule is this: if you would not leave it out for yourself in a hot kitchen or sunny garden, do not leave it out for your pet. Keep meals simple, avoid rich human foods, and focus on hydration and keeping the animal cool. The best summer treat for most pets is not ice cream or BBQ scraps. It is a cool, quiet place to rest, clean water, and an owner who knows when to slow everything down."