Dog owners warned to keep pets on the lead this month

Spring has well and truly arrived, and with longer days and warmer temperatures, it’s the ideal conditions for taking your dog out on a leisurely stroll through the city or countryside. However, vets are cautioning dog owners that this period of the year can heighten the risk of roaming and escape behaviour in animals — particularly unneutered animals.

In cats, extended daylight hours can trigger heat cycles, while in dogs, greater exposure to other animals — especially females in heat — can make unneutered males considerably more prone to roaming or bolting. Dr Aimee Warner, resident veterinarian at Waggel said: “Owners often think their pet would never run off or ignore recall, but reproductive instincts can be incredibly powerful.

“At this time of year, some unneutered pets can become much more motivated to roam, especially if they pick up on the scent or presence of another animal in season.

“That can quickly turn into a dangerous situation if they get out near roads or unfamiliar areas.”

For cats, increased daylight is directly linked to their reproductive system, meaning unspayed females may begin entering heat more frequently.

This can result in them becoming more vocal, restless and increasingly likely to attempt an escape outdoors, reports Surrey Live.

For dogs, spring doesn’t trigger the reproductive cycle in quite the same manner, yet greater time spent outside leads to heightened exposure to other dogs. In males, this can fuel distraction, roaming and escape attempts.

Dr Aimee advises all dog owners to keep their pets on a lead during spring to reduce the risk.

She said: “For unneutered dogs especially, it is sensible to use a lead or long line in parks, near roads, or anywhere with a lot of activity and new scents.”

It’s also advisable to double check your garden and ensure it is properly secured.

Dr Aimee said: “This is a good time of year to inspect fences, gates, and any possible escape routes. A determined pet can squeeze through surprisingly small gaps or exploit weak spots you may not have noticed before.”

The vet also recommends that pet owners discuss neutering with their veterinary surgeon.

“It is not just about preventing unwanted litters. It can also help lower the risk of roaming, fighting, spraying, and other behaviours that can put pets in danger.”

She added: “We all want to enjoy the nicer weather with our pets, but spring can bring behavioural changes that owners do not always anticipate.

“An unneutered pet is not being disobedient when it suddenly becomes harder to manage outdoors. Remember that natural instincts can simply override training in that moment. Taking a few practical precautions can go a long way towards keeping them safe.”