Vets Issue Urgent Warning as UK Temperatures Soar to 40C
The Met Office has warned that temperatures could reach 40 degrees Celsius in parts of the UK this week, prompting emergency veterinary chain Vets Now to share a simple seven-second pavement test to protect dogs from burnt paws. The heatwave, which has already pushed temperatures above 30°C in many areas, poses serious risks to pets as dogs cannot sweat and rely on panting to cool down.
According to Vets Now, many dogs are treated for severe paw burns during hot weather, cases that could have been avoided with simple precautions. The charity states: "Dogs' paws can be just as sensitive as humans' feet. That means they're equally as likely to get burnt walking on a hot surface as their owner would be."
The Seven-Second Pavement Test
Vets Now advises owners to place the back of their hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it is too hot to hold, it is too hot for the dog to walk on. The test was developed by vets in the US, where paw burns are common due to high summer temperatures.
The charity explains that even on a pleasant 25°C day, asphalt and tarmac can reach a staggering 52°C. When the mercury hits 31°C, surface temperatures can rise to 62°C. For context, an egg can fry in five minutes at 55°C, and skin destruction can occur in just one minute at 52°C. Pavements absorb heat all day and retain it, making them dangerous even on moderately warm days.
Additional Safety Tips for Dog Owners
Vets Now also warns that artificial grass and running track materials can become extremely hot, while natural grass remains the coolest surface. The charity advises: "The fact natural grass was the coolest of the six suggests that owners should choose it to walk their dogs on hot summer's days (although our strong advice is to exercise dogs before 8am and after 8pm when temperatures are no longer as high)."
Other recommendations include investing in dog booties to protect paws, always checking the surface heat before leaving the house, and keeping walks to early morning or late evening when surfaces are cooler. Dogs suffering from burnt paws may show signs of limping, licking their paws, or reluctance to walk, and owners should contact a vet immediately if they suspect burns.
