More than 50% of UK dog owners make no change to their dog-walking routine during heatwaves – and only 21% of them check the temperature of plastic lawns, according to a new study exploring the behaviour of dog owners in hot weather.
The survey, which included 2,000 pet owners, was conducted on behalf of Burns Pet Nutrition (Burns) following the mini-heatwave that hit much of the UK earlier this week.
In hot weather, plastic grass can reach temperatures of almost 50C, which can lead to burnt paws, heat stroke or sometimes even death, says Emma Boardman, a veterinary and nutrition expert at Burns.
Fake grass presents one of the biggest threats to dog health in heatwaves, but pavements and roads are also a danger.
Despite this, the survey revealed that 49% of dog owners make no change to their walking routine when the weather is hot, and 8% say they take their pooch out more.
Just 43% said they alter their daily dog-walking habits in high temperatures – taking fewer walks, going out earlier in the morning or later in the day, or only letting their dog out briefly to go to the toilet.
While the majority (85%) of owners do check the temperature of the pavement before going for walks, only 21% make sure fake lawns are safe for their dogs to walk on.
“If dogs aren’t looked after in the heat, they can suffer from burnt or blistered paws, heat stroke, multi-organ failure or even death," says Boardman.
The poll reveals more than 38% of pet owners feel temperatures of up to 29C is too hot for walks, while another 34% believe 24C is too much for a dog.
“When it comes to summer walkies, I would always advise going earlier and later in the day when the air and ground temperatures are far less oppressive for dogs," Boardman recommends.
“Also, I would draw particular attention to people with these trendy new fake lawns, which can get extremely hot compared to normal grass.
“Remember to always secure a shaded patch of garden for your dog to lie down in, when you’re outside”.
The majority of those surveyed (85%) said they could spot signs of heat distress in a dog.
Broadman says there are a number of ways you can help keep your dog cool this summer. You can use breathable cooling vests or bandanas, provide plenty of cool water and give them dog-friendly ice treats.
When they're in the garden, you can give them a cooling mat to lie on, make sure they have shady areas to relax in or even provide them with a paddling pool.
More about dogs:
- Vets warn hot ground burns pet paws
- How to keep your dog cool and prevent it getting heatstroke
- Why do dogs lick you
- How to housetrain your puppy
- How much should I feed my dog and how often? All your dog nutrition questions answered
- What to do if you lose your dog: Key dog-finding advice from the experts at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home
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