A Heartbreaking Loss Amid Record-Breaking Heat
A woman has shared her heartbreak after losing her beloved pet pug during a record-breaking heatwave that saw temperatures reach 36C in parts of the country. Kellie-Jay Keen, a women’s rights activist, posted an image of her dog, Gilbert, and wrote: ‘My dog just died in the heat. He escaped the cool kitchen whilst I was out. So long Gilbert.’
This tragic incident comes as the RSPCA issued a warning to pet owners about the dangers of extreme heat. The charity described the soaring temperatures as a ‘silent killer’ for animals.
Pugs are particularly vulnerable due to their short skulls and compacted airways, which can lead to Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome (BOAS). This condition makes it difficult for them to breathe, exercise, and regulate their body temperature, increasing their risk of heatstroke.
Ms Keen shared her grief on social media, writing: ‘It’s been a devastating night of what ifs. Our poor happy little dog went to a part of the garden I’ve never seen him in. He could have come back into the cool kitchen at any point. He had a cold fan, cold water, ice cream earlier, he’d been hosed down. Maybe I should have got him a paddling pool as I’d thought the night before? He got through hot days and nights before, without incident. We said our last goodbyes, but the what ifs remain unresolved.’
The RSPCA has urged pet owners to be vigilant during this heatwave. Lauren Bennett, an RVN and dog welfare expert with the charity, said: ‘Planning ahead and being prepared in this hot weather can help save pets’ lives. Complacency can mean soaring temperatures are a silent killer for our beloved animals.’
The charity advised pet owners to avoid hot walks and never leave their dogs in a hot vehicle. They also warned that trains, ferries, and caravans can pose risks to pets. Owners were encouraged to walk their dogs in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler.
Signs of heatstroke in pets include limping or refusing to walk, licking or chewing at their feet, darker paw pads, missing parts of their pads, and blisters or redness. Other tips include ensuring access to shaded areas, providing clean, cold water, and avoiding running or cycling with dogs during hot weather.
Owners can also add ice cubes to their pet’s water bowl, groom their dogs regularly to remove excess hair, and provide damp towels for them to lie on.
Miss Bennett added: ‘We know that almost half of the public may still underestimate the danger, which is why now is the critical time to start your ‘pet homework’.’
The warnings come as Britain could experience its hottest June day ever again on Thursday. The Met Office reported highs of up to 40C possible, bringing the UK closer to the all-time record of 40.3C set in July 2022.
Last night was also the warmest June night ever recorded in the UK, with overnight temperatures in Cardiff failing to drop below 23.5C, surpassing the previous record of 22.7C in 1976.
A hosepipe ban was activated immediately today for nearly one million Brits in Kent due to record demand for water. Thousands of schools remained closed, and trains were cancelled again as commuters were urged not to travel unless absolutely necessary.
Transport networks faced major disruption, and people were advised to stay indoors between 11am and 3pm, close windows and curtains, and stay hydrated. More than ten people were taken to hospital for heat-related illnesses after a collision on the M25 in Surrey caused long queues in unbearable conditions.
