Temperatures in Scotland have been unusually high this week, with heatwave status officially confirmed in several areas by the Met Office.
And as well as keeping ourselves cool and hydrated, we can't forget about our pets, who need extra help to cope with the warm weather.
Dogs deal with heat in a different way to humans, so it's vital to make sure they're drinking plenty of water during the day - and one vet has shared a handy way that you can help with this.
Veterinary expert Dr Scott Miller, working with natural dog food brand Barking Heads, has shared the best ways to keep canines protected in the sun.
Dr Miller told the Mirror: "There are plenty of ways you can keep your pet safe from these higher temperatures and to make them feel more comfortable.
"One way is adding extra water to their food bowl. Soak their dry food and/or feed them wet food for additional hydration support."
As well as this water trick, Dr Miller has also shared some further advice for dog owners during the warmer weather.
Can dogs go outside in a heatwave?
Like us, dogs are in danger of catching heatstroke if they're out in the sun for too long.
Although they can spend some time in the garden with us, Dr Miller advises doing this during the cooler hours of the day, avoiding the 11am-3pm window.
Heatstroke is common in dogs, and it can cause them a number of health problems.
Flat-faced breeds and older dogs are more likely to develop it, as they're more sensitive to the heat.
Signs a dog is struggling in the heat
Below are some of the symptoms that your dog is having a hard time in the heat. If they display any of these signs, it's best to contact your vet for advice.
- Excessive panting
- Drooling
- Shaking
- Rapid breathing
- Restlessness
- Lethargy
- Prolonged lack of appetite
- Inability to stand up
How to keep dogs cool in heatwave
Plenty of shade and water are the most important things you can do to keep your pet cool, but there are some other steps you can take too.
These include:
- Keep your pet indoors and out of the sun during the strong, direct sunlight hours
- Walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening
- Always ensure they have access to a full water bowl and add ice packs or cubes to their water
- Circulate cool air inside using fans or air conditioning
- Use damp towels or a cooling mat
- Add shaded areas in the garden
- Apply dog-friendly sunscreen to the sensitive areas on your pet's skin (nose, ears, lips, and stomach) - especially if they are white, light-coloured or patchy
What to avoid during a heatwave
It's advised that you don't fully submerge your dog in water to cool them down, as this can send their body into shock or overheat them.
Stand them in cold ice water instead and pour it over their body, or put them in the shade and douse them in a bottle of water.
Never leave them in a hot car, as this can lead to serious health problems or even death.
And although it's tempting, you shouldn't shave their coat either, as it actually helps to keep them cool. Getting them groomed frequently can help regulate their temperature too.
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