A dog lover has shared their outrage after telling a pet owner walking their dog on a roasting pavement at 35C to 'take your shoes and socks off'. The incident comes as the UK endures a red alert heatwave, with parts of England expected to reach 40C on Monday and Tuesday, according to the Met Office.
RSPCA Warning on Dog Walks
Responding to the extreme heat forecast, the RSPCA has urged dog owners not to walk their pets during peak temperatures. The charity advises particular caution in areas with little to no shade, such as beaches and fields, stating: 'If in doubt, don’t go out.'
An RSPCA dog welfare specialist emphasised the dangers: 'The truth is walking dogs in hot weather can be a silent killer. While the majority would never leave our dogs in a car on a hot day, or even take our dogs for a really long walk in the heat, many people may still be putting their dogs at risk even on a short walk, or taking them to places such as fields and beaches with little or no shade.'
Reddit User's Confrontation
Taking to Reddit, one owner expressed fury at what they had witnessed: 'Genuinely what is wrong with people. Like sure if you live in the country side dig out, enjoy the weather, and let your dog enjoy it too. But the amount of people I’ve seen walking their dogs in and around London the last few days is outrageous. Yesterday at around 2pm I lost it and told someone to take their shoes and socks off and walk on the concrete to see how they liked it, just got a blank stare back like I was talking another language.'
They added: 'And I don’t want to hear excuses like “but I dont have a garden”. So what? Hide treats in your flat/house/abode all day and your dog will be knackered trying to find them. I know I sound holier than thou but jfc I just don’t get how people are so inconsiderate of their pets.'
Kennel Club Advice on Pavement Heat
The Kennel Club has warned that hot pavements can harm a pet's paws: 'Even on warm days, in certain conditions, pavements can become hot enough to cause pain, discomfort and even burn your dog’s paws. Although you may think your dog’s paw pads are quite tough, it’s important to remember that they are still made of skin and can be just as sensitive as the bottom of your feet.'
They recommend testing pavement temperature by placing the back of your hand on the surface for seven seconds. If it is too painful for your hand, it is too painful for your dog’s paws.
Other Dog Owners' Experiences
Other Reddit users shared their dogs' reactions to the heat. One said: 'How do people even get them out the door? Mine hasn’t moved off the kitchen floor for 2 days, he looks like he’s melted into the laminate.' Another added: 'Tbf mine is still sleeping under blankets in the house and I can’t get him to stop. Had to put a fan directed at his legs that are sticking out.' A third commented: 'Just had to demand mine came inside or she’ll just sit there cooking. Her fur gets too hot to touch!'
