Dogs Trust Ballymena issues stark warning as hot pavements put dogs at risk

As temperatures climb across the UK and parts of the country face a rare red heat warning, Dogs Trust Ballymena is urging dog owners to rethink their daily walking routines, warning that a missed walk is far safer than a dog suffering painful burns or potentially life-threatening heatstroke.

The charity says many owners underestimate how quickly hot weather can become dangerous for dogs, particularly when pavements, roads and other hard surfaces absorb heat throughout the day.

With warm conditions expected to continue, the warning comes as Dogs Trust encourages owners to prioritise their pets’ safety and wellbeing over sticking to normal exercise routines.

Unlike humans, dogs cannot regulate their body temperature by sweating. Instead, they rely primarily on panting to cool down, making them far more vulnerable to overheating during periods of hot weather.

Even relatively short walks or periods of activity in high temperatures can quickly lead to discomfort, heat-related illness or, in severe cases, heatstroke.

Hot pavements can cause painful burns

One of the biggest risks highlighted by Dogs Trust is the danger posed by pavements and roads that have been exposed to sunshine throughout the day.

These surfaces can become hot enough to burn a dog’s paw pads, causing significant pain and injury.

Emily Mills, Veterinary Projects Manager at Dogs Trust, said warm weather poses serious risks that many owners may not fully appreciate.

“Many owners enjoy getting outside with their dogs when the sun comes out, but warm weather can pose serious risks. Dogs are much more vulnerable to heat than people, and can quickly become uncomfortable or develop heat-related illness, especially if they’re exercised during the hottest parts of the day.

“Hot pavements can also cause painful burns to dogs’ paw pads. If the ground feels too hot for the back of your hand after holding it there for several seconds, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.

“The safest option during hot weather is to walk dogs during the coolest times of the day, such as early morning or late evening. On exceptionally hot days, it may be best to avoid walks altogether and instead focus on enrichment activities and keeping your dog cool and comfortable at home.”

Simple steps owners can take

Dogs Trust Ballymena is encouraging owners to take a number of precautions whenever temperatures rise.

These include:

• Walking dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when conditions are cooler.

• Considering skipping walks altogether during particularly hot weather.

• Testing pavements and roads with the back of your hand for five seconds before heading out.

• Choosing grassy, shaded areas and limiting time spent on tarmac and concrete.

• Carrying fresh drinking water during walks and ensuring dogs have constant access to water at home.

• Keeping exercise to a minimum and avoiding strenuous games or activities.

• Never leaving a dog unattended in a vehicle, even for a short period or with windows open.

• Providing cool resting places, cooling mats and pet-friendly frozen treats.

Owners are also being urged to remain alert for signs of heat-related illness, including excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhoea and collapse.

Any concerns should be treated seriously and veterinary advice sought immediately.

What to do if your dog shows signs of heatstroke

Dogs Trust is reminding owners of the importance of acting quickly if they suspect a dog is suffering from heatstroke.

The charity advises following the principle of “cool first, transport second”.

Owners should immediately stop any exercise, move the dog to a cool shaded area and offer drinking water.

Cooling should begin straight away using water that is cooler than the dog’s body temperature.

Young, healthy dogs can be immersed in cold water where possible, while older dogs or those with existing health conditions should be sprayed with cold water and cooled using airflow.

Dogs Trust advises against covering dogs with wet towels, as this can trap heat rather than help remove it.

A veterinary practice should be contacted immediately, with cooling measures continuing during transport.

Some dogs face greater risk

While heatstroke can affect any dog, some are particularly vulnerable.

Dogs Trust says brachycephalic, or flat-faced, breeds such as English Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs face a heightened risk because of the way they breathe.

Older dogs, overweight dogs and those with existing medical conditions are also more susceptible to heat-related illness.

With temperatures expected to remain high, Dogs Trust Ballymena is urging owners to remember that there is no harm in skipping a walk if conditions are unsafe.

The charity says a day without exercise is a far better option than exposing dogs to the risk of burned paws, overheating or potentially fatal heatstroke during periods of extreme weather.

For more information on keeping dogs safe during hot weather, visit: http://www.dogstrust.org.uk/dog-advice/life-with-your-dog/seasonal/warm-weather