Walking your dog in hot weather: the UK rules of thumb

Blue Cross says temperatures up to 20°C suit most dogs, and that while there isn't one temperature that's too hot, anything over 20°C can put dogs at higher risk of heatstroke, especially with strenuous exercise. The British Veterinary Association's advice is to walk dogs in the early morning or late evening, or skip the walk altogether if temperatures are high.

Some dogs need more care at every temperature. PDSA lists obese, flat-faced, young, elderly, giant-breed and long-haired dogs as most at risk, and the BVA adds dogs with heart or lung problems.

Most heatstroke isn't from hot cars. Research by the Royal Veterinary College, reported by the BVA, found that over ten times as many dogs needed treatment for heat-related illness after exercise as after being in a hot car, and PDSA says nearly three quarters of cases develop while dogs are playing and exercising.

PDSA's test: if you can comfortably hold the palm of your hand on the ground for seven seconds, it's okay for paws. Sand, artificial grass and tarmac get especially hot. Blue Cross also warns that in a heatwave, temperatures often stay high into the evening, so do the test before an evening walk too.

• Heavy panting that doesn't slow down when they rest.
• Drooling, restlessness, or bright red or very pale gums.
• Wobbling, stumbling or lying down and not wanting to get up.
• Weakness or collapse, and in severe cases confusion, seizures, or vomiting or diarrhoea with blood.

PDSA explains that a dog's normal temperature is about 38 to 39°C, and above 40°C they're at risk of heatstroke, which can cause seizures, organ damage and death. The quicker a dog is cooled and seen by a vet, the better their chance of a full recovery.

1. Move them into the shade or a cool room.
2. Cool them straight away: pour cold water over their whole body, gently at first so they don't panic, keeping it away from their nose and mouth. PDSA says water from the cold tap is fine.
3. Create a breeze with open doors and windows or a fan, and offer a drink of cold water, but don't force it.
4. Don't cover them with a wet towel or cuddle them, which PDSA says makes them hotter.
5. Call your vet as soon as you can, and keep cooling them on the way in, in an air-conditioned car or with the windows open.

This has changed. The BVA notes that earlier advice was to use cool or room-temperature water, but newer research shows cold water brings a dog's temperature down more quickly, without extra risk.

The RSPCA says that when it's 22°C outside, a car, conservatory, outbuilding or caravan can quickly reach 47°C, which can be deadly. If you see a dog in a hot car, the RSPCA's advice is to ring 999, because it has no powers of entry and needs the police.

Summer means open doors and gates, barbecues and campsites, all chances for a dog to slip out. Check the collar and tag before a hot spell, and if the worst happens, work through the lost dog checklist and use our free lost pet poster maker.

• Scatter feeding in a shaded part of the garden.
• A paddling pool in the shade: PDSA suggests getting dogs wet on warm days.
• Ice cubes in the water bowl, and a damp towel to lie on, as the RSPCA suggests.
• Short training games or nose work indoors, in the coolest room.