Walking dogs safely in hot weather

Dogs cool themselves by panting, which stops working well in heat and humidity.

The pavement test

Press the back of your hand to the ground for seven seconds. If you cannot hold it there, it is too hot for paws.

Timing

Walk early morning or late evening. On very hot days, skip the walk entirely and do scent games indoors instead. A missed walk harms nothing; heatstroke can kill in under an hour.

Highest risk

Flat-faced breeds, overweight dogs, seniors, puppies and thick-coated breeds.

Signs of heatstroke

Heavy panting, drooling, bright red gums, wobbliness, vomiting, collapse.

What to do

Move into shade, pour cool (not iced) water over them continuously, offer small drinks, and get to a vet immediately. Cool first, transport second.