VET'S Klinic offer some advice on how to keep your furry companions safe, cool and happy during heatwaves.

• It’s extremely dangerous to leave a dog in the car for more than five minutes. If your dog cannot go inside with you on every stop, it’s safer to leave him at home. If it’s 85 degrees outside, it will climb to 102 degrees within ten minutes inside a car.

• Dogs and cats can sweat a little through the pads of their feet and can enjoy having water cool water on their feet.

• A bucket holding a gallon or more of water stays cooler for longer.

• Animals that go outdoors need access to shade to minimise sun exposure. Those with lighter coats are more at risk of skin cancer and sunburn. Those with darker coats absorb more heat.

• Cats and dogs with longer coats should be brushed regularly to ensure they have natural insulation from the heat.

• Avoid hot pathway and surfaces when walking your dogs, it can easily burn their paws.

If you think your pets are suffering from heatstroke or sunburn, they would advise you to get them to a vet straight away.

For more help or information, email media@vetsklinic.co.uk or call 01793 876619.