Nurture Vet has issued heatwave advice for pet owners in Wells as temperatures are forecast to reach 38C. The practice is warning that pets are at extreme risk of heatstroke in very hot weather and is urging owners to take precautions.

The advice says pets should be kept indoors in the coolest part of the house wherever possible. Owners are also being told to provide constant access to fresh, cool water, with ice cubes described as safe and useful for helping keep water cool.

Fans, air conditioning, cooling mats and damp towels underneath animals can help pets stay comfortable. The practice advises against placing damp towels on top of pets, as this may keep heat in, and says curtains and blinds should be closed during the hottest part of the day.

Drivers are being warned to pre-cool vehicles before allowing pets inside and to avoid unnecessary journeys during peak temperatures. Nurture Vet has also repeated the warning never to leave a pet in a parked car, where temperatures can become fatal within minutes.

Owners are also being urged to avoid hot pavements. The advice says that if a person cannot comfortably hold the back of their hand on the pavement for five seconds, it is too hot for a pet's paws.

Outdoor pets, including rabbits and guinea pigs, need continuous shade, good ventilation and access to cool areas throughout the day. Pets can also get sunburned, especially those with light-coloured skin, thin coats or hairless breeds.

The practice says owners should watch for signs of heatstroke, including excessive panting, excessive drooling, bright red gums, weakness or lethargy, vomiting and collapse. Heatstroke is a life-threatening emergency and the faster a pet is cooled, the better their chance of recovery.

Anyone who suspects heatstroke should move their pet to a cool area immediately and begin cooling them using cold water, wet towels, fans or air conditioning. They should offer drinking water if the animal is able to drink and contact a vet without delay.

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