Planning to walk your dog? Animal welfare organizations warn pet parents of ‘silent killer’ as temperatures rise
The UK is gearing up for yet another hot spell, and that means trouble if you’ve got a dog. Every summer, animal groups and vets remind people about the dangers of leaving pets in hot cars. But honestly, there’s a bigger and quieter threat during heatwaves — it’s heatstroke. It creeps up on pets, an
By Toi Lifestyle Desk
The UK is gearing up for yet another hot spell, and that means trouble if you’ve got a dog.
Every summer, animal groups and vets remind people about the dangers of leaving pets in hot cars.
But honestly, there’s a bigger and quieter threat during heatwaves — it’s heatstroke.
It creeps up on pets, and it can turn deadly before you even know something’s wrong.With temperatures shooting above normal, places like the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) are warning dog parents to pause before lacing up their shoes.
Dogs simply aren’t built like us when it comes to keeping cool.
They don’t sweat much and mostly depend on panting to cool down.
But when it gets really hot, panting just isn’t enough.What do the experts say?According to The Independent, animal charities are clear: If in doubt, don’t take your dog out for a walk when it’s hot, especially in spots without shade like beaches or open fields. “Walking dogs in hot weather can be a silent killer,” says Esme Wheeler, a dog welfare specialist at the RSPCA.
Most people know not to lock their dog in a hot car.
Still, plenty don’t realize a short midday walk in the heat can be dangerous, or even deadly.The RSPCA keeps repeating one message: never leave your dog in a hot car (for any length of time), and think twice before venturing out for a walk if the weather is scorching.
If you see a dog trapped in a hot car, call 999 immediately.People sometimes believe cracking the window or parking in the shade is good enough.
It’s not.
Even on a mild 22°C day, a car can reach 47°C in an hour.
That’s like an oven.And it’s not just dogs.
Blue Cross, another animal charity, is warning cat parents after a kitten fell three stories out of an open window.
They advise keeping cats inside during the hottest part of the day, and if you open a window, put up netting or wire mesh.While we’re at it, humans need to be careful, too.
High UV levels in the South mean you should try to stay indoors during midday, wear sunglasses, a hat, a shirt, put on sunscreen, and drink plenty of water.Why should pet parents take this warning seriously?Heatstroke happens when a dog’s body temperature climbs dangerously high, and they can’t cool down fast enough.
Once the health derails, the situation can escalate quickly — think organ failure, shock, seizures, and if things get really bad, even death.
It’s serious business, and it can hit even before you start to sweat.Veterinarians say trouble starts at 25°C or higher, but as the temperature gets closer to 30°C, the risk grows.
Once it’s over 32°C, it gets extremely dangerous.
Some dogs have a harder time than others, like pugs, bulldogs, Frenchies (all those flat-faced breeds), and those with thick fur, heart issues, or older age.Moreover, a lot of people think their dog needs a walk, no matter what the weather is.
Animal charities and veterinarians disagree.
On the hottest days, it’s safer to skip the walk and try some indoor games instead.
If you must walk your dog, wait for early morning or go out in the evening when it’s cooler, and pavements aren’t piping hot. (And here's a tip: Press the back of your hand to the pavement for a few seconds: if it’s too hot for you, it’s way too hot for your dog’s paws. )Who’s at highest risk?Some dogs just can’t take the heat, no matter how tough they seem.
Flat-faced breeds, older dogs, overweight ones, pets with heart or respiratory conditions, and even those with thick double coats are most at risk.
But honestly, even a young, healthy dog can get heatstroke if they’re pushed too hard on a hot day.What should you do if your pet overheats?Pay attention.
Heavy panting, drooling a lot, bright red gums, acting wobbly, vomiting, glassy eyes, or just looking flat-out weak — these are the red flags you should watch for.
If you spot any, get your dog into the shade, give them cool water, and call your vet right away.
The sooner you act, the better their chances.Get the latest movie news, reviews, and celebrity updates.
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