The British Veterinary Association (BVA) has issued a warning to dog owners ahead of the May Bank Holiday, urging them to take precautions as temperatures are forecast to reach 32C in parts of the UK. The Met Office predicts highs of 32C on Sunday, May 24, and Monday, May 25, in London, with other areas such as Glasgow, Manchester, Aberdeen, Liverpool, Belfast, and Brighton also experiencing rising temperatures.
BVA Advice for Dog Owners
In a statement released on May 21, the BVA emphasised that dog owners should walk their pets early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the hottest part of the day. This is to prevent serious or potentially fatal heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke, burnt paw pads, sunburn, and breathing difficulties. The association noted that each summer, vets across the country treat numerous dogs for these conditions, with some sadly not surviving.
Why Dogs Are Vulnerable
Unlike humans, dogs struggle to stay cool in high temperatures and humid conditions because they cannot cool down quickly through sweating. Panting is their primary method of temperature regulation, making flat-faced breeds like English bulldogs and pugs particularly at risk due to their short muzzles. Overweight, elderly, and densely coated animals are also more susceptible to overheating.
Dr Rob Williams MRCVS, President of the BVA, stated: "While many of us will be looking forward to finally enjoying a bit of sunny weather this Bank Holiday weekend and in the coming week, our pets will need extra care to be safe from heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses." He advised ensuring pets have access to fresh drinking water, good ventilation, and shade from direct sunlight at all times.
The Five-Second Tarmac Test
One of the key recommendations is the five-second tarmac test: before walking a dog, owners should place their palm on the pavement for five seconds. If it feels too hot for them, it is too hot for their dog's paws. This simple test can prevent painful burns.
Recognising Heatstroke Signs
Early signs of heatstroke in dogs include heavy panting, drooling, restlessness, bright red or very pale gums, and lack of coordination. If heatstroke is suspected, owners should move the dog to a cool, well-ventilated area, offer small amounts of cold water, pour cold water over the body, and contact a vet immediately.
Additional Safety Tips
- Always ensure pets have access to fresh drinking water, good ventilation, and shade from direct sunlight. Indoors, provide cooling aids such as a fan or cooling mat.
- Avoid exercising dogs during the hottest part of the day. This is especially important for older dogs, overweight dogs, flat-faced breeds, and dogs with heart or lung conditions. Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening instead.
- Use the five-second tarmac test before walks: place your palm on the pavement for five seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
- Never leave dogs inside vehicles. If you see a dog in distress in a hot car, call 999 immediately.
- Be alert for signs of heatstroke, including heavy panting, drooling, restlessness, bright red or very pale gums, and poor coordination.
- If heatstroke is suspected, move the dog to a cool, well-ventilated area, offer small amounts of cold water, and cool them with cold water. Contact a vet immediately for urgent advice.
The BVA urges all dog owners to follow these guidelines to ensure their pets stay safe during the hot weather expected over the Bank Holiday weekend.
