As temperatures in Maldon are set to reach a whopping 34°C this week, the RSPCA has issued guidance for pet owners to help keep their furry friends cool.

The RSPCA has urged pet owners and animal lovers to make plans and provisions now to protect pets during the upcoming spell of hot weather.

Every year, the RSPCA and other animal welfare groups issue a stark and serious warning to dog owners never to leave a dog in a hot car, and report it immediately if they see a dog in a hot car. This year, the coalition group is also highlighting the health risks of walking dogs during hotter weather, including sunstroke and overheating, as well as pets burning their pads on scorching pavements.

Dogs

• Exercise dogs in the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler - but don't be afraid to skip a walk altogether if it's too hot. Remember: If in doubt, don't go out.
• Keep a close eye on older dogs, those with thicker coats or flat faces, and those with existing health conditions.
• Remember, pavements can get very hot in the warm weather - if you can't comfortably keep your hand on the ground for five seconds then it's too hot for your pooch's paws too!
• Sadly, the RSPCA has been called in the past about dogs with burned pads.
• Have a go at making some frozen dog treats to keep your pooch cool.
• Use cold treats from the fridge for added moisture or make an ice lolly for your dog from pet-friendly ingredients.
• Freeze your dog's water bowl or kong, or add ice cubes to your pet's bowl.
• Fill a paddling pool or spray a hose for your dog to play in but always supervise them around water.
• Wrap an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel, or use damp towels for your pet to lie on.
• Be aware of the signs of heat-related illness in dogs so you can take action and seek urgent veterinary care as soon as possible if necessary - excessive panting or unusual breathing noise, change in behaviour and lethargy, stumbling, any blue/grey tinge to gums or tongue.

Cats, small furries, fish & pet chickens

• Pop a cool damp towel down in case your cat finds this comfortable to rest on.
• Don't let your pet get sunburnt - use pet-safe sun cream on ears and other exposed areas if necessary.
• Check small animals, poultry and other pets twice a day for flystrike.
• Keep guinea pigs cool and hydrated by making them a fresh vegetable treat.
• Ensure rabbits and guinea pigs have constant access to shade and fresh drinking water at all times, and remember that as the sun moves during the day so too does the shade. Somewhere that was shaded in the morning could be in full sun by the afternoon.
• Freeze a semi-full plastic bottle of water and wrap it in a towel so your pets can lie against it.
• Those with pet chickens can encourage them to stay in shaded areas by hanging up a homemade vegetable garland for chickens.
• Keep fish tanks out of direct sunlight.

For more information on keeping your pets safe in the sun, visit the RSPCA website.