"Twenty is Plenty": Dogs Trust warns owners to rethink walks as temperatures rise

With temperatures set to climb in the coming days, Dogs Trust Ireland is reminding dog owners that “Twenty is Plenty” when it comes to exercising dogs in warm weather. The charity is urging owners to rethink their daily routines once temperatures reach around 20 degrees Celsius, warning that even if it doesn’t feel too hot for humans, it can quickly become dangerous for dogs, especially during exercise. Dogs Trust advises keeping walks short and that twenty-minutes in warmer weather is more than enough. 

When air and ground temperatures rise, dogs can struggle as they rely on panting or releasing small amounts of heat through their paw pads to cool down. This means they can easily overheat, especially on walks or during play. Dogs Trust is urging owners to walk their dogs earlier in the day, or late at night when temperatures are cooler, or to skip walks altogether on particularly hot days. 

Niamh Curran-Kelly, Veterinary and Welfare Manager, Dogs Trust Ireland: “‘Twenty is Plenty’ is an easy way for dog owners to remember that their pooches can struggle when the temperatures rise, and to keep exercise sessions under 20 minutes. While some dogs cope better with warmer temperatures, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. Certain dogs are more at risk, including flat-faced breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs, as well as older dogs, overweight dogs, and those with underlying health conditions.

However, it’s important to remember that no dog is immune, and heatstroke can develop quickly in any breed. If a dog shows signs such as excessive panting, difficulty breathing, drooling, vomiting, lethargy or collapse, it’s vital to act quickly. Move them to a cool area, begin gentle cooling using room temperature water, and contact your vet immediately. Acting fast can save your dog’s life.”

Dogs Trust is also reminding owners that keeping dogs cool while at home is equally important. Ensure your dog always has access to fresh drinking water and a cool, shaded place to relax, both indoors and outdoors.

The charity is once again reinforcing its critical warning to never leave a dog alone in a car on a warm day. Even when it feels mild outside, temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly within minutes, creating life-threatening conditions. Parking in the shade and leaving the windows down does little to keep a car cool in hot weather.

Dogs Trust encourages owners to plan ahead during warmer weather and make simple adjustments to protect their pets. For more advice on keeping dogs safe and happy in hot weather visit DogsTrust.ie/HotWeather