Keeping your pets safe this Summer
There is no doubt that we have been lucky enough to enjoy some beautiful spring and summer weather across the UK so far, but while the sunshine may feel lovely to us, it can be very different for our pets.
One of the most common questions people ask during warmer weather is whether it is safe to walk their dog when temperatures rise above 25°C. The simple answer is no, it is not worth the risk.
Walking dogs in high heat can cause a range of problems, especially on pavements, roads and in built up areas where the ground temperature can become dangerously hot. Even when the air temperature feels manageable, pavements can heat up quickly and may burn your dog’s paw pads. A simple rule I learnt is this: if you cannot comfortably hold the back of your hand on the ground for five seconds, it is too hot for your dog to walk on.
Hot weather can also increase the risk of dehydration, exhaustion and heatstroke. Some dogs may become weak, distressed or even collapse. Dogs with thick coats, flat faces, health conditions, older dogs and puppies can be especially vulnerable. It is also important to remember that dogs should never be left in cars during warm weather, even for a short amount of time.
During hotter days, the safest time to walk your dog is usually early in the morning, around 7am, or later in the evening, around 8pm, when the sun is lower and the ground has had time to cool. Shorter walks are usually best, with plenty of access to fresh water before and after.
Where possible, choose shaded routes, fields or grassy areas instead of pavements. Grass and soil tend to stay much cooler than concrete or tarmac, making them a safer option for your dog’s paws.
It is also important to help keep your pets cool throughout the day, not just during walks. Make sure they always have access to fresh, clean water and a cool, shaded place to rest. Keeping curtains or blinds closed during the hottest part of the day can help keep rooms cooler, and fans, cooling mats or damp towels can offer extra comfort. Some pets may also enjoy frozen treats, chilled lick mats or ice cubes in their water bowl, but always supervise them and introduce anything new gradually.
Try to avoid intense play or exercise during the hottest hours, even indoors. Instead, gentle enrichment activities such as scent games, puzzle feeders or calm indoor play can help keep your dog mentally stimulated without causing them to overheat.
Summer can still be enjoyable for our pets, but their safety should always come first. If in doubt, skip the walk, keep them cool and let them rest until the temperature drops.
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