THE RSPCA has urged pet owners and farmers to keep their animals cool in the summer heat as temperatures are set to remain in the 20s this bank holiday weekend.

The charity is issuing the advice after a surge of calls relating to animals and heat exposure.

Its 24-hour emergency line received over 1,600 calls last month – two every hour, or more than 50 a day – from concerned members of the public reporting dogs shut in hot vehicles, farm animals out in the heat, and horses without shade.

Other pets reported as suffering in the heat have included cats and rabbits.

A spokesperson for the RSPCA said: “Dogs and horses need exercise, even when it’s hot. But the RSPCA says you should avoid exercising them in excessively hot weather. We advise walking or riding in the morning or evening when it’s cooler.

“When walking dogs, keep in mind that pavements can get very hot in the warm weather – if it’s too hot to touch with your hand, then it’s too hot for a dog’s paws.”

“Never leave pets in vehicles, caravans, conservatories, or outbuildings in the warm weather. Dogs – and other pets – can overheat and die if left in a hot environment, such as a car.

“Farm animals should have access to shaded areas and clean drinking water. Transportation of animals in hot weather should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. If animals are housed during hot weather, buildings must be adequately ventilated and monitored regularly.”

The RSPCA has given its top tips for pet owners during hot weather.

n Don’t let your pet get sunburnt – use pet-safe sun cream.

n Ensure animals have access to shade and fresh drinking water

n Check every day for fly strike infestation.

n Keep fish tanks out of direct sunlight and top up water levels of ponds

n Keep an eye out for wildlife when using lawnmowers or strimmers

n Keep pesticides out of reach of animals

n Wrap an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel for your pet to lie on

n Use cold treats from the fridge for added moisture or make an ice lolly from pet-friendly ingredients.