Ireland has been engulfed in well-above average temperatures for much of June, and it's not just humans who need to take extra precautions to beat the heat.
Our four-legged friends also require special care and attention to stay cool during soaring temperatures.
Dogs can suffer heatstroke in just minutes so it's important to take necessary measures to keep our furry friends comfortable and hydrated.
It's recommended that dogs have their body temperatures gradually lowered for the best chance of survival.
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But when it comes to giving your dog ice cubes to stop them from suffering in the warmth, many owners have been left wondering whether it's actually a good or bad idea.
Some people have been sharing that they give their dogs ice cubes in the summer months to help cool them down, but their recommendations have been met with speculation from vet professionals.
Some have suggested that giving dogs ice on hot days can actually make them bloated, which is a big risk for larger dogs. However sometimes, an iced treat can go a long way for pups.
A spokesperson for animal rescue charity the RSPCA told Mirror UK: "The RSPCA advises freezing a dog's water bowl or kong before putting water or fresh treats inside (to help keep them cool for longer).
"We also advise putting ice cubes into your pet's water or making frozen treats to help cool them down."
Some vets have stated ice could potentially cause tooth damage for dogs, so it's a good idea to keep a keen eye on them whilst they chow down.
Dr Susan C Nelson, a clinical professor at the Veterinary Health Center at Kansas State University said to PetMD: "The larger and harder the cube, the higher the chance of this occurring", so it could be worth giving smaller cubes or even ice shavings.
The RSPCA also issued their top tips for keeping pets cool in the hot weather.
A spokesperson said: "Never leave animals in cars, conservatories, outbuildings or caravans on a warm day, even if it's just for a short while. When it's 22C outside, temperatures can quickly rise to 47C in these environments, which can be deadly.
"You can also keep your pets safe by:
- Using a pet-safe sun cream on exposed parts of your pet's skin
- Making sure they have shade
- Giving them constant access to fresh water
- Putting ice cubes in their water bowl
- Giving them damp towels to lie on."
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