UK households with dogs are being urged not to take their pets outside for a walk between the hours of 11am and 4pm.
The warming comes as the Met Office is forecasting warmer weather this week, with temperatures expected to peak in the low 30Cs this weekend, before getting hotter on Monday. The national forecaster has said much of the UK will be in “heatwave conditions” by this coming weekend, with temperatures steadily rising from Wednesday. Conditions mid-week are forecast to be around 27C, rising to 29C on Thursday and by Saturday temperatures are expected to exceed 30C across much of the country.
But with hot weather on the horizon, dog owners may unknowingly be putting their pets at risk by taking their pets on walks, even on days that feel milder.
Dog food expert and kennel owner Simon Crawshaw, from Hilltop Pet Food, says even temperatures of 22C can be dangerous for dogs and conditions are expected to be well above this throughout the week.
Dogs are at risk of suffering from heatstroke even on days when conditions feel comfortable and mild, so it’s important for owners to understand when it is too hot to take their pet pooch out for a walk.
According to emergency care data published in Veterinary Record, more than a quarter of dogs treated for heatstroke in the UK didn’t survive and the 2022 study found that many dogs died even outside official heatwaves, often after collapsing on routine walks.
To help minimise the risk of heatstroke and keep dogs safe, Mr Crawshaw urges owners to avoid walking during the hours from 11am to 4pm entirely, as this is typically the hottest part of the day and pavements can be dangerously hot for dogs to walk on.
He explains: “We all know that walking our dogs in extreme heat is a big no, but many dog owners assume that milder days are harmless. In reality, dogs can and do suffer from heatstroke even on days that feel comfortable to us, and it can often be fatal.
“Even at 22 or 23 degrees, if the sun’s been beating down all day, pavements can reach temperatures that will burn your dog’s paws in seconds. Dogs won’t tell you when they’re struggling; they’ll just keep walking, because that’s what you’re asking them to do. But once they overheat, things can go downhill very quickly. And unfortunately, most dog owners don’t spot the signs until it’s too late.”
Mr Crawshaw says dog owners should follow three steps to know when it is too hot to be walking pets outside. He adds: “Use the 7-second rule: Press the back of your hand against the pavement for 7 seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for them.
“Watch the temperature, not just the weather: Even if the air temperature feels moderate, ground surfaces (especially dark tarmac) can be dangerously hot by mid-afternoon. Anything above 24 degrees should be avoided.
“Time it right: The safest times to walk in summer are early morning or after sunset. Avoid the 11 am to 4 pm window entirely.”
Allowing dogs to play in the garden during hot weather can also be just as dangerous as taking a walk, particularly if dogs are chasing balls or running around in the sun.
To help keep pets safe, experts recommend providing shade, putting out paddling pools and offering frozen food or treats to help lower their core temperature. If you notice any of the signs of heatstroke, which include excessive panting, drooling or glazed eyes, rapid heartbeat, vomiting or diarrhoea, and uncoordinated movements or collapse, then move them to a cool spot immediately and contact a vet.
Mr Crawshaw adds: “If you’re in doubt, don’t walk. It’s that simple. Dogs won’t ever say no to a walk, but they will definitely suffer if it’s not the right temperature. While warm weather is one of the joys of summer, it’s a time for care, awareness and putting your dog’s needs first.”