The Met Office has issued a crucial warning to dog owners across the UK as temperatures are set to rise this weekend, posing a significant risk to pets. The national weather service is urging owners to adopt a '5-second' rule to check the temperature of pavements before walking their dogs, to prevent painful burns to their paws.
This practical advice involves placing the back of your hand on the ground for a minimum of five seconds. If it's too hot for your hand to hold comfortably, then it is too hot for a dog's sensitive paw pads. Hot surfaces, including asphalt and concrete, can reach temperatures significantly higher than the ambient air, potentially causing severe blistering and discomfort to animals.
Forecasters anticipate temperatures to climb, particularly across England and Wales. While specific regional breakdowns for the weekend are still developing, areas in the south-east of England could see highs reaching around 24-25°C, with parts of the Midlands and northern England also experiencing warm conditions in the low 20s. Scotland and Northern Ireland are expected to be slightly cooler, generally in the mid to high teens Celsius, but the pavement warning remains relevant for any sunny, still conditions.
The implications of walking dogs on hot surfaces can be serious. Dogs do not sweat through their paws in the same way humans do, and prolonged contact with hot ground can lead to second-degree burns, which are both painful and can require veterinary attention. Owners are advised to walk their dogs during the cooler parts of the day, typically early in the morning or later in the evening, and to stick to grassy areas where possible.
In addition to paw care, the Met Office reminds owners to ensure their pets have access to plenty of fresh water and shade to prevent heatstroke. Strong direct sunlight and high temperatures can quickly lead to overheating in dogs, especially those with thick coats or brachycephalic (flat-faced) breeds. Owners should be vigilant for signs of heatstroke, such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, or stumbling, and seek immediate veterinary help if these symptoms appear.