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.