**Dog Owners Urged to Use ‘Seven-Second Test’ to Protect Pets During UK Heatwave**
As the UK braces for an anticipated period of soaring temperatures, experts are encouraging dog owners nationwide to take vital precautions to keep their pets safe. Although summer is yet to officially arrive, recent weather forecasts predict unseasonably warm days ahead, prompting warnings for the welfare of pets, particularly dogs.
Many people enjoy basking in the sunshine, and our canine companions often relish time spent outdoors. However, it’s important to recognise that dogs do not cool down as efficiently as humans, leaving them vulnerable to the effects of heat. Dr Sean McCormack, Head Vet at Tails.com, is at the forefront of raising awareness about the challenges dogs face in hot weather, and has issued a set of recommendations for keeping pets comfortable and healthy.
One of McCormack’s essential pieces of advice centres on the risk posed by hot pavement and road surfaces. What often feels pleasantly warm to a human can be dangerously hot for a dog’s paws. Tarmac, for example, can soar to temperatures over 50°C even when the air temperature is only 25°C. With temperatures possibly reaching as high as 29°C, McCormack advises owners to steer clear of walking their dogs during midday and afternoon hours. He recommends sticking to early morning or evening strolls, when the ground is cooler.
To determine whether outdoor surfaces are safe for your pet, McCormack highlights the “seven-second test.” Simply place your palm directly on the pavement; if you cannot comfortably keep it there for seven seconds, it is too hot for your dog to walk on. This simple check, he says, could prevent painful burns and long-term injuries to a dog’s sensitive pads.
Hydration remains a crucial factor for both humans and their animal companions during hot weather. Owners are urged to ensure that water bowls are regularly checked, topped up, and located in shaded or cool areas. When venturing out, carrying a portable dog water bottle or collapsible bowl can help guarantee your pet always has access to fresh water. Dehydration can quickly set in for pets, particularly during prolonged periods of heat, making this precaution all the more vital.
Another practical tip endorsed by McCormack is the provision of safe, homemade frozen treats. Shop-bought ice cream is not suitable for dogs, but alternatives such as frozen bananas, pet-friendly ice lollies made with kibble and water, or enrichment toys stuffed and chilled, can be both hydrating and cooling for pets. These treats are especially effective in offering stimulation and relief during particularly hot spells.
Dogs may understandably eat less during the hotter months, owing to both lower levels of activity and the effects of heat. The advice from vets is to feed them smaller meals at more frequent intervals, making it easier for them to manage their intake without becoming uncomfortably full or stressed. Should appetite drop significantly or persistently, a professional opinion should always be sought.
A vital safety message frequently echoed by animal welfare groups at this time of year is to never leave dogs alone in cars, even for a few minutes or with windows ajar. Cars can turn into ovens rapidly, particularly when outside temperatures exceed 20°C, creating deadly conditions that can result in heatstroke or even prove fatal in a matter of minutes. The RSPCA and other charities regularly highlight tragic cases that arise from a moment’s mistake.
For those looking for ways to help dogs chill at home, setting up a small paddling pool or creating a shaded indoor retreat with drawn curtains and a fan can provide considerable relief. Such simple adjustments, be it a shady corner indoors or a cool splash in the garden, contribute significantly to pets’ comfort.
Owners are also reminded to stay vigilant for the first signs of heatstroke, a serious and potentially life-threatening condition in dogs. Early symptoms include excessive panting, difficulty breathing, severe lethargy, weakness, disorientation, drooling, vomiting, and, in severe cases, collapse. Should any of these warning signs present themselves, immediate veterinary assistance is essential.
With careful planning, regular checks, and a mindful approach, pet owners can ensure their dogs remain healthy and happy as the mercury rises. Taking proactive steps now could mean the difference between an enjoyable summer and an emergency dash to the vet.