Here for your pets, all summer long
Make the most of every summer adventure.
And if the unexpected happens, Vets Now is here when minutes matter.
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Click below to view our summer content
🌞 Hot weather
Hot summer weather can pose serious risks to dogs, including life-threatening heatstroke. If you’re concerned, start cooling them straight away, then get them to a vet. Find out more below.
Wet before vet
Quick action is critical when it comes to heatstroke. Actively cooling an overheated dog with water before attending clinic drastically increases their chances of survival.
Heatstroke
Dogs overheat quickly as they don’t sweat like humans. Heatstroke can cause vomiting, collapse, seizures, or death. Avoid exercise in peak heat and never leave dogs in cars.
Hot pavements
Hot surfaces can burn paws in minutes. Test with your hand for seven seconds; if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them. Walk pets early in the morning or evening instead.
🌿 Outdoor danger
There’s nothing better than enjoying the outdoors with your dog, but it’s important to be aware of hidden hazards along the way. A little caution goes a long way. Find out more below.
Bees and wasp stings
Stings can cause mild pain or serious swelling. To reduce the risk, safely clear any bees or wasps from your home and keep a watchful eye when your pet is outside.
Fleas and ticks
Ticks are common in summer, especially in long grass. Check your pet for ticks each day and use regular preventative treatments to protect pets effectively.
Garden chemicals
Products like weedkillers can harm pets if touched or ingested. Keep pets away from treated areas and store chemicals safely.
💧 Around water
Water can be great fun for dogs, but it’s worth understanding the risks before they dive in. A little awareness helps keep them safe. Read more below.
Blue-green algae
This bacteria grows in warm, still water and may be invisible. It releases toxins that can cause severe illness or death. Keep pets away from discoloured or scummy water.
Drowning risks
Not all dogs can swim well, and even strong swimmers can panic. Always supervise pets near water and consider a life jacket while paddling, swimming or exploring on water.
Beaches
The beach is fun for all the family, including your dog. Plan a safe and fun day out and discover pet-friendly beaches across the UK with our Pawfect Beaches Guide.
🐾 Summer fun
From car journeys to BBQs, life with your dog is full of special moments. A few simple checks can help keep everything running smoothly so you can focus on the fun. Find out more below.
Travelling with your dog
From short trips to the park or a longer escape, it’s important to make sure your dog travels safely and comfortably. Here’s how to keep your dog happy while on the move.
Fruit and veg guide
Luckily, many fruits and vegetables are not only safe for dogs, but they’re also packed with nutrients and can be a healthy addition to their diet, when served in moderation.
Barbeques
BBQs can be risky due to hot equipment and unsafe foods like bones and corn cobs.
Keep food out of reach and pets away from barbecues.
Learn pet safety the fun way - can you spot the hazards?
From barbecues to beach days, summer fun isn’t always safe for our pets; hidden hazards can lurk in unexpected places.
Put your knowledge to the test with our Summer Hazards Scape game and see how many you can spot
Real life stories
Maverick's ordeal: Dog ate a skewer and survived
A super-cute puppy called Maverick lived up to the name by somehow swallowing an entire 20cm chicken skewer.
Warning as blue-green algae season begins
A cocker spaniel named Lyric spent two nights in intensive care after swimming in algae-contaminated water.
Mango's hot dog summer
Summer hazard infographics
Help us warn dog owners about summer hazards
As temperatures rise, watch out for these common summer dangers for dogs.
Keep a close eye on outdoor activity, take steps to reduce overheating and contact your vet if something feels off.
Read, download and share our summer hazards infographic to your own social media channels to help spread the word.
Help us keep more cats safe this summer
As the warmer months arrive, watch out for these common summer risks for cats.
Keep curious cats safe by securing catios, watching for signs of heatstroke and contact your vet if you notice any unusual behaviour.
Read, download and share our summer hazards infographic to your own social media channels to help spread the word.