🐾 Gloucester's Heatwave Guide β€” June 2026

Keeping Your Dog Cool in the
Gloucester Heatwave

Expert grooming tips from Caroline at Oscar's Dog Grooming Service β€” Bristol Road, Gloucester

πŸ“ž Call Caroline β€” 07518 585894

Gloucester's Heatwave β€” 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 β€” 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 β€” 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:

  • βœ” Removes dead undercoat β€” reduces coat density so air can circulate properly
  • βœ” Eliminates matts β€” matted fur traps heat against the skin, raising body temperature
  • βœ” Cleans ears and paws β€” summer humidity increases ear infection risk; paw pads checked for burns
  • βœ” Improves skin health β€” 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.

1

Walk Early or Late

Walk before 8am or after 7pm β€” never in the midday heat when pavement temperatures peak.

2

Fresh Water Always

Multiple bowls around the house and garden, changed frequently β€” add ice cubes to keep it cool.

3

Provide Shade

Drawn curtains, cool tiled floors, or a shaded garden spot β€” your dog needs a cool retreat.

4

Use a Cooling Mat

Gel cooling mats give instant relief β€” place one in your dog's favourite rest spot.

5

Frozen Treats

Freeze a Kong with xylitol-free peanut butter, or frozen chicken stock in ice cube trays β€” dogs love them.

6

The 7-Second Pavement Test

Press your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds β€” too hot to hold means too hot for paw pads.

7

Never Leave in the Car

A car can reach 47Β°C on a 22Β°C 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:

  • 🐾 Heavy, excessive panting that doesn't ease at rest
  • 🐾 Restlessness, agitation or trying to move to a cooler spot
  • 🐾 Excessive or unusually thick/sticky drooling
  • 🐾 Vomiting, diarrhoea or collapse
  • 🐾 Lethargy, wobbling, seizures or loss of consciousness

πŸ›‘οΈ RSPCA Advice: Cool First, Transport Second

  1. Move the dog into shade and stop all movement immediately.
  2. Pour cool water over their body (neck, stomach, thighs β€” avoid the head).
  3. Create airflow with a fan or breeze β€” keep the dog wet and ventilated.
  4. Do not put wet towels over the dog β€” this traps heat and makes things worse.
  5. Once cooled, transport to your nearest vet in a well-ventilated vehicle and call ahead.

Source: RSPCA β€” Heatstroke in Dogs

🚨 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 β€” 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 β€” simply call or send a text to check my next available appointment.

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