Summer is the most dangerous season for many UK pets. Heatstroke, tick-borne diseases, and seasonal allergies all peak during the warmer months. Knowing the risks — and the potential costs — can help you keep your pet safe and avoid expensive emergency vet visits.

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is a veterinary emergency that can be fatal within minutes. Dogs are particularly vulnerable because they cannot sweat — they rely on panting to cool down. Brachycephalic breeds (French Bulldogs, Pugs, English Bulldogs) are at highest risk.

Signs of heatstroke: Excessive panting, drooling, bright red gums, vomiting, collapse, unsteadiness.

Treatment costs:

  • Emergency consultation: £100–£300
  • IV fluid therapy: £150–£400
  • Intensive care (if organ damage occurs): £500–£2,000+
  • Fatality rate for severe heatstroke: approximately 50%

Prevention: Never leave a dog in a car, even with windows cracked. Walk dogs early morning and late evening. Provide shade and fresh water. Avoid exercise in temperatures above 25°C for brachycephalic breeds, above 28°C for all dogs.

Ticks and Tick-Borne Disease

Tick activity peaks from March to October, with highest numbers in June and July. UK ticks can carry Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi) and babesiosis. While tick-borne disease is less common in the UK than mainland Europe, cases are increasing.

Tick removal: Use a tick removal tool (available from vets and pet shops for £3–£5). Do not squeeze, burn, or cover the tick with Vaseline. If unsure, your vet can remove ticks during a consultation (£30–£65).

Lyme disease treatment costs:

  • Diagnosis (blood test): £80–£150
  • Antibiotic course: £20–£60
  • Follow-up monitoring: £50–£100

Ensure your dog is on a tick-preventive product throughout summer. Nexgard, Bravecto, and Seresto collars all provide effective tick protection.

Seasonal Allergies

Pollen allergies affect dogs just as they do humans, but dogs typically show skin symptoms rather than sneezing. Signs include excessive scratching, red paws, ear infections, and hot spots.

Treatment costs for seasonal allergies:

  • Consultation: £30–£65
  • Apoquel (daily allergy tablet): £1–£2.50 per day
  • Cytopoint injection: £60–£120 every 4–8 weeks
  • Ear infection treatment: £50–£120 per episode
  • Medicated shampoo: £8–£15

Water Safety

Dogs swimming in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers during summer face two main risks:

  • Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria): Toxic and potentially fatal. Produces visible green scum on water surfaces in hot weather. Ingestion can cause liver failure. Emergency treatment costs £500–£2,000+.
  • Leptospirosis: Bacterial infection from contaminated water. Ensure your dog's lepto vaccination is up to date.

Burnt Paw Pads

Tarmac and pavement can reach 50–60°C on hot days. Dog paw pads can burn after just 30 seconds on surfaces above 52°C. Test the pavement with the back of your hand — if you cannot hold it there for 5 seconds, it is too hot for your dog.

Treatment for burnt paws: £50–£150 depending on severity. Severe cases may need bandaging and antibiotics.

Summer Checklist

  • Ensure flea and tick prevention is up to date
  • Walk during cooler parts of the day
  • Carry water on all walks
  • Avoid blue-green algae warnings on lakes and ponds
  • Never leave pets in cars or conservatories
  • Check between toes and around ears for ticks after every walk

Last updated: March 2026. In a heatstroke emergency, begin cooling your pet with cool (not cold) water and drive to the nearest vet immediately.