People have expressed anger after witnessing dog owners walking their pets in the midday sun in Wiltshire amid the ongoing heatwave.
Wiltshire 999s has been contacted by at least five readers who have reported seeing dogs being exercised during the hottest part of the day as temperatures reached around 32°C this afternoon (Tuesday).
The sightings – in Westbury, Trowbridge, Swindon, and Warminster – come despite repeated warnings from animal welfare organisations that dogs can quickly become seriously unwell in extreme temperatures.
The RSPCA recently warned that heatstroke can be a “silent killer” for pets and urged owners to avoid walking dogs during hot weather.
Animal welfare experts have advised that dogs should only be exercised during the coolest parts of the day, typically early in the morning or later in the evening, when temperatures are significantly lower.
The charity has also warned that hot pavements can burn dogs’ paws and recommends carrying out a simple pavement test before heading out.
If the ground is too hot to comfortably keep a hand on for several seconds, it is too hot for a dog to walk on.
Owners are being reminded that missing a walk for a few days is unlikely to cause harm, whereas exercising a dog in extreme heat can lead to serious health complications.
Signs of heatstroke can include excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, lethargy, confusion and collapse.
Anyone concerned that their dog may be suffering from heatstroke should move the animal to a cool area, provide cooling measures and seek urgent veterinary advice.
The hot weather is expected to continue this week, with authorities urging people to take extra care of both themselves and their pets.
