RSPCA settles whether it’s safe for dogs to eat ice cubes

However, the RSPCA has confirmed there has been no evidence to indicate dogs will develop GDV from consuming ice cubes in warm weather. A spokeswoman told The Mirror: “There have been some anecdotal reports circulated online that giving dogs ice cubes can cause them to develop bloat, or gastric dilation voluvulus (GDV). However, studies into the risk factors for GDV have not identified ice cubes as a risk factor.

“Our advice is to freeze a dog’s water bowl or kong before putting water or treats in, to keep them cool for longer. Putting ice cubes into your dog or cat’s water bowl or making some tasty ice cube treats is another good idea. Damp towels for your pet to lie on or an ice pack wrapped in a towel could provide a welcome relief from the heat.”

This comes as the RSPCA renews appeals for owners to keep their pets safe during the heatwave after they filmed a pavement reaching 61 degrees – hot enough to burn the paws of dogs and cats. The RSPCA’s dog welfare expert, Esme Wheeler, has called on pet owners to take immediate action to safeguard their animals during the fierce heatwave.

Esme said: “This weather is extreme and it’s a life or death situation for some people, let alone animals, who rely on us to help them survive the intense temperatures. We all have a duty to take every precaution possible.

“These few days of extreme hot weather need to be taken very seriously, that means staying inside or wherever it is coolest, skipping walking dogs and riding horses, and doing everything we can to provide shade and fresh water for wildlife.”