When is it too hot to walk your dog in Leeds this week - and how to keep them safe
Walking dogs in warm weather can be extremely dangerous ☀️
Leeds is baking in a heatwave this week, with the Met Office predicting soaring temperatures expected to reach 35C.
An amber UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) heat health alert is in force for Yorkshire and the Humber until 11 pm on Friday 26 June.
Whilst the sunshine is expected to be challenging for us humans, for our dogs it can be serious and even deadly, as they are at high risk of heat stroke.
It may be tempting to take them out on a walk in the warm weather, but is it safe? Here’s everything you need to know about when it’s too warm to walk your dog.
When is it too hot to walk your dog?
Taking your dog for a walk in the sunshine may seem like a good idea, but it can be dangerous for your pet. To avoid the risk of heatstroke, walk them during the early morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler, and avoid walking them during the hottest times of the day.
Be extra careful if your dog is older, overweight, has a heavy coat or is a flat-faced breed such as a pug, French bulldog or English bulldog.
Dogs Trust also recommend that you carry out the five-second tarmac test before taking your dog out for a walk, as tarmac can get very hot in the sunshine and burn your pet’s paws.
Before letting your dog walk on it, check how hot it is with your hand. You can do this by holding your hand down on the tarmac for five seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog, and it’s advised that you take them out at a later time when the tarmac is cooler.
Avoid car trips with your dog and never leave your dog alone in the car, even if the temperature is in the low twenties. When it's 22 °C outside, the temperatures inside a car can reach a dangerous high of 47 °C within an hour.
What are the signs of heat stroke in dogs?
It’s important to familiarise yourself with the signs of heat stroke in dogs. If your dog experiences any of these symptoms outlined by the RSPCA, you must take them to a vet urgently, as heat stroke can be life-threatening.
The symptoms of heat stroke in dogs can include:
- heavy panting
- excessive drooling
- lethargy
- drowsiness
- uncoordinated movements
- collapsing
- vomiting
Flat-faced dogs such as pugs, French bulldogs, Shih Tzus or boxers are more vulnerable to heat stroke, so it’s important to be extra vigilant during warm weather.
You can find out more information about how to keep your dog cool during a heatwave at Dogs Trust.