Dog owners urged to make 5-second check on Saturday

The UK is set for a mini heatwave over the Bank Holiday weekend, with temperatures expected to reach the 30s across parts of the country. That said, pet owners are advised to take extra precautions to protect their companions in hot weather.

RSPCA has issued several pieces of advice for dog owners to consider when taking out any furry friends in the summer. While regular walks and fresh air are crucial for dogs’ health and wellbeing, the hot weather can be dangerous for dogs if not done properly.

The charity advises that pet owners take their dogs on walks in the early morning or late evening, when it’s cooler, but they should check the pavement before walking.

It explained: “Pavements can get very hot! You know the saying, ‘it’s hot enough to fry an egg!’ Imagine what that does to your poor dogs’ feet! If the ground is too hot to touch with your hand for five seconds, it’s too hot for paws.”

When walking your dog during hot weather, it is also advisable to look out for signs of discomfort or pain, such as limping or refusing to walk, licking or chewing at their feet, darker-coloured pads, missing part of a pad, and blisters or redness.

The RSCPA also urged never to leave dogs in cars or other vehicles, caravans, conservatories or outbuildings in warm weather, as when “it’s 22C outside, temperatures can quickly rise to 47C in these environments, which can be fatal”.

The Met Office has said that the temperature for Saturday is likely to hit 30C and “that the May and Spring UK temperature records will be broken over the Bank Holiday weekend”.

If you notice any signs of heatstroke in your dog, contact a vet immediately. You can find the signs below: