30,000 sign petition calling for fines for people who walk dogs in heatwaves

Over 30,000 people have supported Paige Spearman’s call for fines for those who do so.

If enforced it would mean dogs can’t be walked in the daytime for large parts of the British summer.

There are far too many deaths caused by heat stroke every year due to negligence and ignorance, wrote Paige in a petition. ‘I believe fines should be enforceable if anyone is seen walking a dog in 20° heat and over by the police.’

Those who see this happening are encouraged to ‘speak up and call the police’, according to the Staffordshire bull terrier springer spaniel cross owner.

In an interview with Hampshire Live, she said: ‘I’m just really frustrated that people are so uneducated. In this heat, taking your dog for a walk can cause them to die quite quickly.

It was confirmed that Sunday would become the hottest day of the year, as the mercury soared above 31°C. She launched the petition on Sunday, which was confirmed as the hottest day of the year.

Paige’s threshold for walking her dog even at night was barely dipped below the scorching temperatures on Tuesday as July’s heatwave continued.

A Waterlooville resident says walking their dogs on hot tarmac can cause their paws to suffer ‘excruciating’ pain from blisters and burns.

‘It’s been well known for some time that you should always test the floor temperature before taking your dog for a walk.

‘Ask yourself, “If you can’t do it, why would you make your dog do it?”’

The report gave temperatures between 20 and 23°C a heat risk rating of six out of 10, writing: ‘Even at this temperature, dogs can get heat stroke if they exercise vigorously or suffer from obesity or breathing problems.’

Clare Hamilton, of Cherry Tree vets in Buckinghamshire, said: ‘Anything over 25°C is very risky if people need a number as a benchmark. It also depends on humidity and breeze – or rather lack of.’

In response to Metro.co.uk’s request, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home said: “In some cases, hot weather may cause your dog to become ill, and in some cases, it can be fatal, so keep your dog cool during the warmer months, which means you shouldn’t take them for long walks during the hottest part of the day.

The weather is cooler early in the morning and late in the evening when you should take your dog for a walk. In the event that your dog cannot be kept indoors between these times, Battersea recommends daytime toilet walks when necessary.

During toilet breaks, stay calm and short. It is recommended that you walk your dogs in shaded, grassy areas and avoid paved areas as these can be very hot for their paws.