Don't be barking: The seven-second test on whether to walk your dog in a heatwave

Dog owners are advised to limit walking during heatwave conditions, especially when pavement temperatures are high. On extremely hot days, skipping walks may be safer because early mornings and evenings can still be hot enough to cause heatstroke. A simple method is recommended: place the back of a hand on the ground for seven seconds; difficulty holding it down indicates it is too hot for a dog to walk. Signs of heatstroke include staggering, weakness, or collapsing. If a dog shows distress, owners should cool the pet with cool water or non-toxic cold fluids if needed, then contact a vet. Dogs should have easy access to water and shade, and should never be left in parked cars, where temperatures can rise rapidly.

"On extremely hot days, dogs will benefit from skipping a walk completely as evenings and early mornings are still hot enough to trigger heatstroke, said Dr Rhian Littlehales, clinical governance director at Medivet & Partners."

"If you're not sure if the pavements are too hot, place the back of your hand on the ground for seven seconds, she said. If you struggle to hold it down, it's too hot to walk your dog."

"To protect their dogs if they are not coping with the high temperatures, owners are advised to soak their pet in cool water, and even non-toxic fluids such as cold fizzy drink if water is not available, and then contact a vet to seek medical advice."

"Dr Littlehales stressed that even on a mild 23C day, the temperature inside a parked car or can soar to 43C in just 30 minutes and it can happen in as little as 10 minutes when it is hotter. The safest choice is to leave your dog at home, where they have access to shade and fresh water while you're out."

Read at www.standard.co.uk