Experts are urging dog owners to take extra precautions this Bank Holiday weekend ahead of the predicted hot weather.
Dog owners are being asked not to leave dogs in cars, even for “just five minutes”, to avoid midday walks and to ensure dogs always have access to fresh water.
“Bank Holidays are when routines change. People are out for longer, they’re travelling more, and dogs are often brought along without much thought about how quickly heat can become dangerous,” said Darren Beale, ceo of fresh dog food brand Years.
“The biggest mistake is thinking it only matters during an official heatwave. Dogs can struggle in warm weather much earlier than people realise, especially in cars, direct sun, humid conditions or on hot pavements.
“A car can become dangerously hot very quickly. Leaving a dog while you pop into a shop, grab a drink or queue for food can be enough time for them to become distressed. It is never worth the risk.
“If you are planning a Bank Holiday day out, think about whether your dog actually needs to come. If there’s any chance they’ll be left in the car, even briefly, they are safer at home in a cool room with water.”
Legal responsibility
While it is not illegal to leave a dog in a car, owners are legally responsible for their animal’s welfare. If a dog suffers or dies as a result of being left in a hot vehicle, the owner could be prosecuted under animal welfare law. The maximum penalty for animal cruelty offences in England and Wales can include up to five years in prison and/or an unlimited fine.
Darren suggests calling the police if you see a dog shut inside a vehicle.
“If a dog is panting heavily, drooling, distressed, weak, confused or collapsed, that is an emergency. Call 999 and ask for the police. Do not assume someone else has already done it,” said Darren.
“People often ask whether they should break a window. The safest advice is to call the police first and tell them exactly what you are seeing.
“If the situation becomes critical and you feel you have no option, the RSPCA advises telling the police what you intend to do, taking photos or videos of the dog, and getting witness details.
“Breaking into a vehicle could still be treated as criminal damage, so this is not something to do lightly.”
How to keep your dog safe in hot conditions
- Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening, when temperatures are lower.
- Avoid midday walks, especially in direct sun.
- Check pavements with the back of your hand before walking.
- Keep fresh water available at all times.
- Take a portable water bowl on any day out.
- Make sure dogs have access to shade.
- Avoid intense games, running or long walks in warm weather.
- Never leave dogs in cars, conservatories, tents or caravans.
Watch closely for signs of overheating, including excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, wobbliness or collapse.
“Missing a walk will not harm your dog, pushing them through a hot walk can. Owners should not feel guilty about keeping dogs indoors during the warmest part of the day,” concluded Darren.
For more information and additional guidance on senior dog care and nutrition click here.
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