Anyone whose dog wears a collar told to be careful ‘this weekend’ | UK | News

With a heatwave forecast for the UK this Bank Holiday weekend, experts at pet insurer ManyPets are urging owners to think carefully about their dog’s safety as temperatures climb, warning that some of the most common mistakes owners make could put their pets at serious risk.

From the type of lead attachment you use to the way you try to cool them down at home, the advice includes one tip that many owners have never considered.

Dr Kirsten Ronngren, Lead Vet at ManyPets, said: “Perhaps the least well-known tip on the list, and one I’d say pet parents of brachycephalic breeds and dogs that pull a lot with a regular lead need to hear. When a lead pulls against a dog’s collar, it presses on their airway, which directly restricts their ability to pant.

“Since panting is the main way dogs regulate their body temperature, anything that interrupts it in hot weather is a potential problem. Switching to a harness during a heatwave is a simple change that could make a meaningful difference to your dog’s comfort and safety. If people do use a harness because their dog pulls, use a lighter mesh one in warmer temps vs. thicker in the winter.”

Dr Ronngren said there are specific times to walk your dog in hot weather. She said: “The sun’s UV peak is usually between 10am and 3pm, with the hottest air temperatures falling around late afternoon (3-4pm), so early morning and late evening walks are strongly recommended.

“But it is not just about timing. Owners who run with their dogs or throw balls repeatedly should ease back significantly during hot weather (and sometimes skip altogether if you can’t get out at cooler times of day). Dogs, particularly young puppies, struggle to regulate their body temperature and will often keep going long past the point they should stop. It’s an owner’s responsibility to enforce safe limits for their pup.

“Before heading out, press the back of your hand against the ground for five to ten seconds. If it is too hot for you, it is too hot for your dog’s paws. Pavements, roads and sand can all reach temperatures that cause burns in seconds. Sticking to grass and shaded paths wherever possible is the safest option.”

You also need plenty of water. Dr Ronngren said: “Ideally having multiple water bowls around the house, water and a portable bowl on every outing, and frozen dog-friendly treats can help ensure dogs have adequate options to stay hydrated. These are small steps that can make a significant difference across the course of a hot day. Ice cubes and frozen lollies made for dogs are widely available and easy to prepare at home.

“A shallow paddling pool in a shaded part of the garden is a straightforward way to help a dog cope with the heat. Dogs can cool down remarkably quickly when they can stand or lie in cool water, and unlike open water, the environment is completely controllable. Even dogs that are not natural swimmers will often wade in when they are hot enough. Keep it topped up with fresh water and position it well away from direct sunlight.”

Dr Ronngren provided four other tips:

Cool the house down before the temperature peaks

Most people wait until their home feels unbearably warm before they act, and by then it is much harder to manage. The advice is to close doors, windows and curtains before the temperature peaks in the late morning, not after. Fans and cool mats placed in the areas your dog naturally gravitates to will help maintain a comfortable resting temperature throughout the hottest part of the day.

Never leave your dog in a car, even for a few minutes

This remains one of the most important reminders every summer, and every summer it still needs repeating. The temperature inside a parked car can double within minutes even on a moderately warm day, and cracking a window makes almost no difference. There is no errand quick enough to justify leaving a dog alone in a hot vehicle. If travelling with a dog, ensure your dog can join you on your stops or leave your dog at home.

Some dogs need extra care

Brachycephalic breeds, those with flatter faces such as French Bulldogs, Pugs and Bulldogs, are significantly more vulnerable in hot weather because their airways are already compressed, making it harder to regulate heat through their breathing. Older dogs, young puppies, overweight dogs and those with underlying health conditions can face similar challenges. These dogs need additional vigilance, shorter outings and more frequent checks throughout the day.

Know the warning signs before it becomes an emergency

Heavy panting and restlessness (i.e. decreased ability to settle) can be indicative of early overheating. In these cases owners should consider safe cooling techniques such as cool water over their dog, especially in the armpits, stomach, groin, and feet areas to help their pup cool down. A bluish tinge to the tongue or gums, vomiting, lethargy or decreased responsiveness are signs your dog is suffering from true heatstroke . Cooling methods can be taken however heatstroke is a medical emergency. Your dog should be seen by a vet immediately.