WATCH: After over 100 dogs rescued from cars, vets issue new pet warnings amidst heatwave

OVER 100 dogs were rescued from cars as ‘hot as ovens’ last week. 

The SSPCA has also reported an 80% surge in calls about dogs at risk during the heatwave.

While the profile of keeping dogs out of cars has been raised, vets are now warning about perils for other pets, specifically guinea pigs and rabbits.

Ross Allan, RCVS Advanced Practitioner in Small Animal Surgery at the Roundhouse Veterinary Hospital said:  “While much attention has quite rightly been made about the dangers of heatstroke in dogs, we have recently been made aware of several of recent cases of heatstroke in pet guinea pigs and urge owners to be aware of the significant danger that the present extended period of unusually warm weather poses to their pets.

“Unlike dogs, guinea pigs do not control their heat loss by panting. An excessive rise in body temperature, coupled with dehydration, can lead to death if not treated promptly so it is vital that guinea pigs are kept in the shade and have access to fresh water to keep them hydrated.

“Ceramic tiles that have been in the freezer overnight, or frozen bottles of water wrapped in a towel, can also be placed into your guinea pig’s run to help keep them cool.”