Dog owners are being advised to follow a simple five-second rule to protect their pets during the upcoming May Bank Holiday heatwave. The Met Office has forecast temperatures reaching up to 30°C in parts of England and Wales, with an 'exceptional spell of hot weather' expected across much of the UK.
Alison Thomas, Head of Veterinary Services at Blue Cross, recommends checking pavement temperature before walking dogs. 'Simply take off your shoes and stand barefoot on the pavement. If it's too hot for you to stand there for five seconds, it's too hot for your dog,' she said. Insure Your Paws pet insurers suggest an alternative method: pressing your hand against the pavement for five seconds.
Experts advise walking dogs during cooler times, such as early morning or late evening, and avoiding lunchtime walks. Never leave a pet in a hot car or conservatory, as temperatures can become deadly within an hour even on a 22°C day. Ensure pets have access to shade and fresh water at all times.
Heatstroke is a serious risk for dogs, particularly flat-nosed breeds like Pugs. Symptoms include heavy panting, restlessness, excessive drooling, and loss of coordination. If heatstroke is suspected, move the dog to a cool area, wet its coat with cool tap water, and seek veterinary attention immediately.
Additional advice includes keeping up with flea and tick treatments, as warm weather accelerates their reproduction. Owners should also watch for early signs of heatstroke and act promptly to prevent fatal outcomes.
