A UK hospital has warned it will report people leaving dogs in cars to police and animal welfare authorities after multiple incidents of patients and visitors abandoning pets in vehicles during appointments. The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital said dogs can die from heatstroke in as little as 20 minutes.
The warning coincides with amber heat-health alerts across the Midlands, eastern and southern England where temperatures are expected to top 30°C, with the Met Office forecasting highs of 35°C on Wednesday. Veterinary professionals say heatstroke in pets is occurring even in homes and gardens, with one network reporting a 28% increase in suspected cases last year compared to 2024. Flat-faced breeds and animals with thick coats face elevated risk.
Experts also cautioned against feeding dogs frozen treats meant for humans, noting ingredients such as xylitol, chocolate and raisins are toxic, while the PDSA advises cats also struggle in extreme heat.