Vet’s warning to dog owners about collars during UK heatwave
Looking after our pets in a heatwave remains a top priority (Image: Getty)
As parts of the UK are hit with a red weather warning, looking after our pets remains a priority. Experts at pet insurer ManyPets are urging owners to think carefully about their dog’s safety as temperatures climb.
They have warned that some of the most common mistakes owners make could put their pets at serious risk. One of the tips Dr Kirsten Ronngren, a lead vet at ManyPets, has shared, in particular, has caught owners off guard, and it involves a dog’s collar. These are the things dog owners need to know during the UK’s hot weather.
Pet owners should swap their dog’s collar for a harness (Image: Getty)
Swap the collar
Dr Ronngren said: “Perhaps the least well-known tip on the list, and one I’d say pet parents of brachycephalic breeds and dogs that pull a lot with a regular lead need to hear.
“When a lead pulls against a dog’s collar, it presses on their airway, which directly restricts their ability to pant.
“Since panting is the main way dogs regulate their body temperature, anything that interrupts it in hot weather is a potential problem.
“Switching to a harness during a heatwave is a simple change that could make a meaningful difference to your dog’s comfort and safety.
“If people do use a harness because their dog pulls, use a lighter mesh one in warmer temps vs. thicker in the winter.”
Avoid walking your pet during the hottest part of the day (Image: Getty)
Time your walks carefully
The sun’s UV peak is usually between 10am and 3pm, with the hottest air temperatures falling around 3-4pm, so early morning and late evening walks are strongly recommended.
But it is not just about timing.
Dr Ronngren continued: “Owners who run with their dogs or throw balls repeatedly should ease back significantly during hot weather (and sometimes skip altogether if you can’t get out at cooler times of day).
“Dogs, particularly young puppies, struggle to regulate their body temperature and will often keep going long past the point they should stop. It’s an owner’s responsibility to enforce safe limits for their pup. “
Never leave your dog in a car even if it is only for a few minutes (Image: Getty)
Check the pavement
Research from Admiral suggests many pet owners are not changing their routines in hot weather, and only 43% of dog owners say they avoid walking them on pavements, tarmac and artificial grass.
Tarmac can reach 50°C when the air temperature is 25°C – above the temperature where hot water becomes a scalding risk. This is according to research conducted by Admiral and the University of Leicester.
Dr Ronngren suggested: “Before heading out, press the back of your hand against the ground for five to ten seconds. If it is too hot for you, it is too hot for your dog’s paws.
“Pavements, roads and sand can all reach temperatures that cause burns in seconds. Sticking to grass and shaded paths wherever possible is the safest option.”
Never leave your dog in a car
Dr Ronngren noted: “This remains one of the most important reminders every summer, and every summer it still needs repeating.
“The temperature inside a parked car can double within minutes even on a moderately warm day, and cracking a window makes almost no difference.
“There is no errand quick enough to justify leaving a dog alone in a hot vehicle. If travelling with a dog, ensure your dog can join you on your stops or leave your dog at home.”
