How to keep pets cool and avoid heat related illness in Somerset.
As summer begins, warmer weather can quickly become uncomfortable and even dangerous for pets. Dogs and cats do not cope with heat in the same way humans do, and heatstroke in dogs and cats can happen faster than many owners realise.
At Garston Vets in Somerset, we see a noticeable spike in heat-related calls every summer, particularly from owners walking their dogs at Longleat Estate during the hottest part of the day. Dogs cool themselves mainly by panting, while cats rely on finding cool, quiet places to rest. Both methods have limits, especially during heatwaves or high humidity.
Simple ways to keep pets cool
Small changes can make a big difference.
- Always provide fresh, cool water and refresh it often.
- Keep pets indoors during the hottest part of the day.
- Close curtains or blinds to block direct sunlight.
- Use fans to improve airflow, but make sure pets can move away if they choose.
- Provide cooling mats or damp towels for resting.
For dogs, walks should be limited to early mornings or late evenings. Pavements can become dangerously hot, so always check the ground with your hand before heading out.
Cats often manage heat quietly, so make sure they have access to shaded areas, cool floors and undisturbed resting spots.
Pets most at risk in hot weather
Some pets need extra care in summer.
- Flat-faced breeds such as Bulldogs and Persians.
- Overweight pets.
- Senior pets.
- Animals with heart or breathing problems.
If your pet falls into one of these groups, the team at Garston Vets can offer tailored advice to help reduce risk. We see a lot of Labrador Retrievers and older French Bulldogs in Somerset, and we'll happily plan a summer check-up around your pet's needs.
Signs of heatstroke to watch for
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Knowing the signs of heatstroke in dogs and cats can buy your pet vital minutes.
Look out for:
- Heavy panting or rapid breathing.
- Drooling or thick saliva.
- Lethargy or weakness.
- Vomiting or diarrhoea.
- Collapse or seizures.
If you are concerned, contact Garston Vets on 01373 452225 immediately. Early treatment can be lifesaving.
What to do if you suspect heatstroke
Heatstroke is a true emergency. The first few minutes really matter, and what you do at home before you get to the vet can make a real difference.
- Move your pet to a cool, shaded place straight away.
- Wet their coat with cool, not ice-cold, water. Pay particular attention to the belly, groin and paw pads.
- Use a fan or open window to keep air moving over the wet fur.
- Offer small sips of cool water if they want it, but never force them to drink.
- Get to the vet as quickly as you safely can, even if your pet seems to be picking up. Internal damage can show itself several hours later.
A note on what to avoid. Do not use very cold water, ice packs directly against the skin or full ice baths. It sounds counterintuitive, but extreme cold can make blood vessels at the surface clamp down, which actually traps heat inside the body and can tip pets into shock. Cool, gentle and quick is the rule.
How your vet can help
The team at Garston Vets in Somerset can:
- Assess your pet's heat risk before summer hits.
- Offer advice on safe exercise routines.
- Support weight management.
- Help manage ongoing health conditions during summer.
If you'd like a summer check-up before the next heatwave, you can book an appointment online or call us on 01373 452225.
Quick answers
What temperature is too hot for a dog?
As a rule of thumb, walks become risky once the air temperature is above 20°C, and high-risk above 24°C. Pavement temperature also matters — if you can't comfortably hold the back of your hand on the ground for seven seconds, it's too hot for paws. Vet advice in Somerset: shift walks to early morning or late evening through July and August.
What are the first signs of heatstroke in a dog?
Heavy panting, very thick or stringy saliva, bright red gums, lethargy, and an unwillingness to keep moving are usually the earliest signs. Vomiting, collapse and seizures come later and indicate a true emergency.
Should I put my dog in cold water if I think they have heatstroke?
No. Use cool tap water, not ice cold water or an ice bath. Extreme cold causes blood vessels at the surface to constrict, which traps heat in the body. Wet the coat, particularly belly, groin and paw pads, keep air moving, and get to the vet straight away.
Can cats get heatstroke too?
Yes, especially older cats, overweight cats, and flat-faced breeds like Persians. Cats tend to hide discomfort, so look for unusually quiet behaviour, panting (very unusual in cats), drooling, or seeking out cold floors and tiled areas.
How to book and contact us
To book online or check availability, visit here. You can also call us on 01373 452225, or pop into Garston Vets:
- Frome | 01373 452225 | View our opening hours
- Melksham | 01225 617779 | View our opening hours
- Trowbridge | 01225 754021 | View our opening hours
- Warminster | 01985 213350 | View our opening hours
- Westbury | 01373 301448 | View our opening hours
For out-of-hours emergencies please call 01373 452225.
