As Storm Austen batters the UK with high winds and torrential rain, a vet nurse is advising dog owners to skip their usual walks due to "dangerous conditions" that pose a "real risk" to both owners and pets.
The Met Office has issued several weather warnings for wind covering Wales and much of England. Further wind warnings will come into force tomorrow in Northern Ireland, Scotland and the north of England, while a new amber warning has now been issued for 34 areas ahead of Storm Boelo, the second named storm to hit the UK in a matter of days.
Vet nurse's advice on skipping walks
Leah Callaghan, a vet nurse at Butternut Box, is urging pet owners to think twice before heading out on their daily walks during the storms and weather warnings. She said: "If there's a severe weather warning where you live, whether it's for wind or heavy rain, my advice is simple: skip the walk. I know it can feel wrong, but a dog won't come to any harm from missing a walk or two."
"Being outside in dangerous conditions is a real risk for both of you. The risks depend on the weather. In strong winds, gusts can bring down branches, send loose objects flying and startle a dog into pulling, panicking or bolting."
"In persistent heavy rain, paths and fields can flood, while burns and rivers can rise quickly. Even if your dog has excellent recall, I wouldn't rely on it in frightening or unpredictable conditions."
Risks to all dogs and safety tips
Callaghan added that smaller and lightweight dogs are more at risk in storms, due to powerful gusts knocking them off balance, while animals with a thinner coat can get cold and wet very quickly. However, she stressed that this is not only a small dog issue.
"Flying debris, slippery ground, fast-moving water and sudden noises put dogs of all sizes at risk, and a big, strong dog pulling in a panic can be hard to control," she said. "So base your decision on the conditions, not your dog's size. If it's unsafe, it's unsafe, whether you have a Chihuahua or a German Shepherd."
She advised steering clear of coastal paths, sea fronts, beaches and clifftops, where large waves can knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea. She also recommended offering gentle enrichment at home instead of making up for a missed walk later in the day.
Toilet trips and garden safety
Callaghan noted that many dog owners forget to take toilet trips into account during bad weather. She advised giving dogs the chance to go beforehand, while it's still safe, and if they need to go out during the worst of it, keeping them on a lead, staying close to home and coming straight back in.
She suggested that puppies, older dogs and dogs who dislike going out in bad weather may do better with a sheltered spot or, if they're comfortable with it, an indoor option such as a puppy pad. She also warned: "Check your garden before you open the door, too. Strong winds can leave broken branches and damaged fencing and loosen gates, so a familiar garden may no longer be safe. And never leave your dog outside unattended during severe weather."
