When summer arrives in the UK, it seems to appear suddenly. One day we can be wrapped up cosy winter woollies – the next we are panic buying fans and ice lollies.

Any sudden and extreme change in temperature can be dangerous. Every year, people perish as a result of heat-related illness. Weather agencies increasingly release advance alerts of predicted severe weather, including high temperatures, to allow time to prepare for the change.

Extreme temperatures aren’t just a threat to human health, though; they are also a problem for our pets. Human health alerts should also help us to prepare our pets and their environment for extreme weather events, including heatwaves.

Because of global climate changes, it is likely that heatwaves will continue to increase in frequency, length and severity. So owners must become more aware of how to protect pets. Every year, dogs die from being left in hot cars but there are many other risks to pets’ health and welfare. During a heatwave, when the weather changes dramatically, our pets aren’t able to acclimatise to the higher temperatures.

Here are five ways to help keep your pets cool and safe during a heatwave.

Dogs in hot cars are at serious risk. Cars can heat up rapidly, even with opened windows. This can be a problem when parked, but our pets can also be at risk of heat exposure while travelling.

Avoid leaving your........

© The Conversation