Make it illegal to walk dogs during extreme heat to prevent suffering and death.

Introduce legislation to make it an offence to walk or exercise dogs during dangerously high temperatures (i.e. 25°C and above), to protect them from heatstroke and burned paws.

Every year in the UK, dogs suffer and die from preventable heat-related illnesses. Many owners are unaware that dogs cannot regulate their body temperature effectively and can overheat within minutes.

Hot pavements can also cause severe burns to dogs’ paws. When air temperatures reach 25°C, pavement temperatures can be significantly higher and dangerous.

Animal welfare organisations warn against walking dogs in hot weather.

We believe this legislation would help prevent unnecessary suffering, raise awareness, and hold owners accountable for avoidable harm.

The government agrees that particular attention needs to be paid to the health and welfare of pets in periods of extreme weather.

Anyone caring for an animal is required to comply with the Animal Welfare Act 2006 by providing for their welfare needs, including the need for a suitable environment and protecting them from pain, suffering or injury. This duty includes protection from extreme temperatures.

The 2006 Act is supported by Defra’s Code of Practice for the Welfare of Dogs,(https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5ac78152ed915d76a04b2da6/pb13333-cop-dogs-091204.pdf) which advises that dogs are vulnerable to heat stress and that owners should, where possible, avoid exercising them in extreme heat. Breach of a provision of the Code is not an offence in itself. However, if proceedings are brought against a person for an offence under the 2006 Act, the court will consider whether they have complied with the relevant Code when deciding whether an offence has been committed.

Failing to comply with the 2006 Act is punishable up to imprisonment, an unlimited fine or both. Local authorities are responsible for enforcing the 2006 Act and will often work in close partnership with others, including welfare charities such as the RSPCA, to ensure that the welfare of animals is protected.

Owners are supported to understand their pets’ needs, which will vary according to factors such as breed, age and health. Organisations such as the RSPCA, Dogs Trust and British Veterinary Association also provide helpful advice on how to look after dogs in hot weather. Advice includes keeping dogs in the shade where possible, keeping dogs hydrated, testing the temperature of pavements with one’s hand before walks and encouraging safe, supervised play with water. This advice is often promoted online and through media outlets during periods of hot weather.