Basking in the sun after a day chasing sticks might seem like a slice of doggy heaven, but Lincolnshire pet owners have been warned of the dangers hot weather poses to dogs.

The summer heatwave could leave pets feeling sick as a dog if they are not kept cool.

But these days the old fashioned solution of a water bowl in the shade just doesn't cut it.

Owners in Lincoln are being offered a bewildering array of goodies and gadgets to give their furry companions relief from the heat.

Graham Drury, deputy manager of the Pets At Home store, in Outer Circle Road, said: "It's all about educating pet owners as what they can do to keep their animals cool, either when they buy a pet or come in for advice.

"We are really keen to show people about what they can do, from the free things like putting frozen bottles of water in the cages to the products we sell like fans and marble plates."

From a water bottle snug, designed to keep drinking water cool, to a mini fan that clips on the side of most cages, there are a whole host of products aimed at making sure our furry friends do not suffer in the sun.

There is even a quirky Dog Beer, a beef-flavoured, hydrating drink for dogs to enjoy during the barbecue season.

Advice is also being issued on all sides, with the most important thing being to make sure your animals have plenty of water and always carry some with you when taking the dog for a stroll.

For more pet safety tips, see Tuesday's Echo.