Today looks set to be the hottest day of 2026 so far.
Yesterday saw temperatures reach 24.9 degrees Celcius at Dublin’s Phoenix Park with 27 degrees mooted for the next two days.
Met Éireann believes high pressure will keep much of the country dry and sunny over the next few days.
With the hot weather, you’re reminded to take extra care if you aim to cool down in a waterbody. Especially as local spots aren’t yet lifeguarded (Carlow’s and Kilkenny’s will be staffed for weekends in June).
While animal welfare groups ask that you take the heat into consideration with regards to any animals in your care.
The Irish Blue Cross is warning temps over 20 degrees can put dogs in particular at a higher risk of heatstroke and they’re urging all to keep all pets safely out of the sun and out of hot vehicles.
Dr Laura Mock, Head of Veterinary Services at The Irish Blue Cross explains: “Heatstroke is a potentially life-threatening condition for dogs. It can develop very quickly and, if not treated promptly, can lead to seizures, organ failure or even death.
Sadly, we are still seeing dogs being walked at the hottest times of day, struggling to breathe and dogs being left in cars while their owner shops. Being left in a car in the heat, even with the window ajar, can be incredibly distressing for dogs and ultimately fatal. Even if you are only going to be a few minutes, please consider dropping your dog home first and heading back out by yourself, it’s just not worth the risk to your dog’s health and happiness.”
Signs of heat stroke include, restlessness, excessive panting, heavy breathing or difficulty breathing, drooling, change in gum colour from pink to dark red, pale, purple or blue. Pets may also be drowsy or uncoordinated and may collapse or vomit in severe cases.
Dr Ciara Sweeney, Veterinary Surgeon at The Irish Blue Cross continues: “It’s not just dogs we need to watch out for. With more open windows, cats can get into all sorts of places and get accidentally shut in, so please check your garden sheds and sunrooms when closing your windows at night.
For indoor pets, please keep plenty of cool water available and consider closing blinds and curtains on very hot days to provide plenty of shade.”
The veterinary charity advises pet owners who suspect their dog is suffering from heatstroke, to move them to a cool place, preferably with a draught and keep them still and calm. Wet their chest and stomach areas, where they have less hair, with cool water and contact your vet immediately.
The charity also notes that while ice cubes are safe for most healthy dogs as an occasional treat, they should not be used as a method of cooling a dog suffering from heatstroke. In an emergency, controlled cooling with water and immediate veterinary care is essential.
For further information on keeping your pet cool, please visit the charity’s website BlueCross.ie
Gardaí locally have been in touch to remind people that it’s an offence under the Animal Health and Welfare Act, 2013, to not provide water or shelter to pets and all animals in such weather conditions.
They’ve issued text alerts to communities across our locality.
Meanwhile, here’s a video with tips for the hot weather;
