Pet owners warned of dangerously hot 60C pavements during heatwave
RSPCA video shows how hot pavements get during a heatwave
The scorching weather is heating up pavements and paths to dangerously high levels which risk scorching the paws of pets.
A video, recorded by the RSPCA, showed how one pavement got as hot as 60C during the intense heat.
The animal charity said every per owner had a duty to take "every precaution possible" to keep their pets safe and be aware of the risks and dangers.
Speaking to ITV News, Dr Sam Gaines, Head of Companion Animals, RSPCA said: "During the current heatwave we are urging dog owners not to exercise their dogs during the heat of the day.
"And given that we are on one of the hottest days on record we are advising dog owners not to exercise their dogs at all today.
"If they have to, then only exercising at very late evening but it's not just the air temperature people need to be concerned about, it is also about the ground temperature.
"If people are going to take their dogs out this evening, they should place their hand on the pavement and if it's too hot after five seconds then it's too hot for their dog's paws."
The RSPCA had the following advice for pet owners to help keep animals safe:
Provide several water bowls around the home for pets to drink often.
Place containers of water outside for wild animals.
Do not take your dog on a car journey unless absolutely necessary.
Try to keep at least one room in the home as cool as possible by closing curtains or using a fan (out of reach) to encourage good airflow.
Check pets and outdoor animals such as chickens and small furries every hour for signs of heatstroke, fly-strike or sunburn and keep water topped up.
Do not take your dog out for a walk or exercise - it may be possible to take them for a gentle walk on the lead when the sun has gone down either early morning or late at night.
Keep toilet breaks for dogs very brief and try to stick to shaded spots as much as you possibly can.
If your dog, cat or small furry looks uncomfortable , try wrapping an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel and place it near them to lie next to, or use damp towels for your pet to lie on.
Dogs die in hot cars. Call 999 in an emergency if you see a dog in a hot car.
The RSPCA added: "Knowing how to try and prevent heatstroke, and also how to spot the signs of heatstroke in pets could be a matter of life and death, so we’re urging anyone with a pet - whether it’s a dog or cat, a rabbit or guinea pig, and even chickens, horses and exotic animals - to put aside some time today to read up and make plans."
For more advice on protecting your pets, click here.
Want a quick and expert briefing on the biggest news stories? Listen to our latest podcasts to find out What You Need To Know...