Dog Pavement Test: Save Paws from 40°C Heat

The UK is experiencing a significant heatwave, with temperatures forecast to reach 40 degrees Celsius by Wednesday and Thursday. This extreme heat poses a serious risk to pets, particularly dogs, who are vulnerable due to their inability to sweat and thick fur.

Vets are advising dog owners to use a simple seven-second pavement test to determine if surfaces are too hot for their pets' paws. By placing the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds, you can gauge if it's safe. If it's too hot for you, it's too hot for your dog.

Asphalt and tarmac can reach dangerously high temperatures, over 50 degrees Celsius, even when the air temperature is a mild 25 degrees Celsius. Artificial grass and running track materials also become excessively hot. Natural grass, however, remains the coolest surface and is recommended for walks.

To ensure pet safety, Vets Now strongly advises exercising dogs during cooler parts of the day, ideally before 8 am and after 8 pm. This proactive approach can prevent severe paw burns and other heat-related illnesses in pets.