Keeping Your Dog Cool in the
Gloucester Heatwave
Expert grooming tips from Caroline at Oscar's Dog Grooming Service โ Bristol Road, Gloucester
๐ Call Caroline โ 07518 585894
Gloucester's Heatwave โ and What It Means for Your Dog
If you're in Gloucester right now, you'll know just how intense this June 2026 heatwave has been. The Met Office issued a red extreme heat warning โ the highest level. Whilst we're all reaching for cold drinks, spare a thought for your dog. They can only cool themselves by panting, and a matted or dirty coat makes that much harder.
I'm Caroline at Oscar's Dog Grooming Service, and I see first-hand how coat condition directly affects your dog's wellbeing โ especially in extreme heat. A clean, well-groomed coat isn't just about looks; it's an essential part of keeping your dog safe and comfortable this summer.
Why grooming helps in the heat:
- โ Removes dead undercoat โ reduces coat density so air can circulate properly
- โ Eliminates matts โ matted fur traps heat against the skin, raising body temperature
- โ Cleans ears and paws โ summer humidity increases ear infection risk; paw pads checked for burns
- โ Improves skin health โ a clean, conditioned coat allows skin to breathe and regulate temperature
7 Ways to Keep Your Dog Cool This Summer
Simple, vet-approved tips from Caroline at Oscar's Dog Grooming Service, Gloucester.
Walk Early or Late
Walk before 8am or after 7pm โ never in the midday heat when pavement temperatures peak.
Fresh Water Always
Multiple bowls around the house and garden, changed frequently โ add ice cubes to keep it cool.
Provide Shade
Drawn curtains, cool tiled floors, or a shaded garden spot โ your dog needs a cool retreat.
Use a Cooling Mat
Gel cooling mats give instant relief โ place one in your dog's favourite rest spot.
Frozen Treats
Freeze a Kong with xylitol-free peanut butter, or frozen chicken stock in ice cube trays โ dogs love them.
The 7-Second Pavement Test
Press your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds โ too hot to hold means too hot for paw pads.
Never Leave in the Car
A car can reach 47ยฐC on a 22ยฐC day. In a heatwave this is fatal. Dog in a hot car? Call 999.
Know the Signs of Heatstroke
Heatstroke in dogs is a life-threatening emergency. Act immediately if you see any of these signs:
- ๐พ Heavy, excessive panting that doesn't ease at rest
- ๐พ Restlessness, agitation or trying to move to a cooler spot
- ๐พ Excessive or unusually thick/sticky drooling
- ๐พ Vomiting, diarrhoea or collapse
- ๐พ Lethargy, wobbling, seizures or loss of consciousness
๐ก๏ธ RSPCA Advice: Cool First, Transport Second
- Move the dog into shade and stop all movement immediately.
- Pour cool water over their body (neck, stomach, thighs โ avoid the head).
- Create airflow with a fan or breeze โ keep the dog wet and ventilated.
- Do not put wet towels over the dog โ this traps heat and makes things worse.
- Once cooled, transport to your nearest vet in a well-ventilated vehicle and call ahead.
Source: RSPCA โ Heatstroke in Dogs
๐จ Dog in a hot car showing signs of heatstroke? Call 999 immediately.
Book a Summer Groom with Caroline
Call Today to Check Availability
Every dog at Oscar's Dog Grooming Service receives calm, 1-to-1 stress-free care โ no busy waiting rooms, no rushing. I specialise in nervous, anxious and large dogs, and every groom is tailored entirely to your dog's needs.
A summer groom helps your dog stay cooler, healthier and more comfortable during this heatwave. Don't wait โ simply call or send a text to check my next available appointment.
Or visit oscarsdoggrooming.co.uk to learn more