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Get prepared for the warmer weather now

With temperatures set to soar across the UK, experts are urging pet owners to create 'cooling corners' for dogs outside.

We might enjoy basking in the scorching sunshine, but anything above 20 degrees could be putting pets at considerable risk of developing heatstroke. According to Paving Direct, corners in the garden that provide shade will allow dogs to roam around their outdoor space without the risk of becoming unwell.

Patios are one of the recommended places to create cooling corners, as slabs can overheat during the summer months. We suggest picking up a sunshade (Aldi has just launched one for dogs), treating your dog to a cooling mat and always ensuring there is fresh water for them to drink. Don't forget to apply suncream to your pup if they are playing outside.

"Paving materials have the ability to radiate heat once warm which means your garden patio could be preventing any respite for your pets and causing them a real problem," says Cass Heaphy, digital director at Paving Direct. "On particularly warm days, slabs can reach an ambient temperature. This means that the floor could then become uncomfortable and dangerous for pets, even in the shade."

Want to create a cooling corner? Take a look at the two things you can easily do...

Find a section of your patio or outdoor space that is shaded from direct sunlight or an area that you can create shade around. This can be used as your pet's designated cooling corner.

You can even create some extra shade by surrounding the area with pet-friendly and non-toxic plants such as African's Violet's or spider plants.

It will most likely be the warmest around midday and your paving slabs will have retained ambient heat from the sun during the morning. This is when they will be warm or hot to the touch. It’s also when it can become dangerous for your four-legged friends to walk or lie on.

"Thankfully the properties of most paving materials - concrete, porcelain and natural stone - mean they can be kept cool as easily as they can get warm, but the management of this is key - which is why we recommend creating a 'cooling corner' for your pets and following some simple instructions to make this a paradise for your four-legged friends," Cass confirms.

At this point in the day you should spray the slabs with cold water every few hours to keep them cool, particularly in your pet's cooling corner. When the water evaporates it will also cause further cooling to occur and make your dog feel even more comfortable in the heat.

Call your vet immediately if you suspect your dog has heatstroke

Let your four-legged friend cool down in their very own pool. And you don't have to worry about blowing this up or it taking up too much room in your garden. This dog pool can be folded away in seconds.

We're big fans of this pet bowl, which will help to keep your pup cool once filled with water.

A must-have for warm summer days, this cooling dog mat doesn't need to be chilled or filled with water. The gel interior keeps pups cool and is best placed in a shaded space for them to feel the full benefits.

Working to reduce body temperature, this cooling dog collar simply needs to be soaked in water for a few minutes and then applied to offer a cooling respite for your dog.

This adjustable cooling jacket is available in a range of different sizes for medium, large and extra large breeds. The lightweight material will also keep your dog feeling much more comfortable in warm weather.

Suitable for dogs and cats, make sure that your four-legged friends stay hydrated this summer. This fountain continuously filters and re-circulates fresh water for them to drink and can hold two litres at a time.

This cooling mat serves two purposes; cooling down your dog and allowing them to have a whole lot of fun playing with the sprinkling water. All you need to do is attach a regular garden hose to use this.

This toy bone can be filled with water and frozen to cool down your dog. It's also ideal for helping to soothe the mouths of teething puppies all year round.

Chill both your dog's water and food during a hot day with this bowl that can be kept in the freezer to give your pup a refreshing drink or meal.

Suitable for all dogs thanks to its three sizes, this bandana will keep your pup feeling cooler on a warm day. Simply soak in water, wring out any excess and fasten it around their neck and repeat the process when needed.