Due to the pandemic, many people adopted pets to keep them company in isolation. As more people started working remotely, they had more time to take care of pets. Unfortunately, many of them are being returned now that the world is opening up.
One of the responsibilities associated with owning a pet is making sure they are healthy and all their needs are met. For dogs, one of these needs is making sure they get walks and exercise.
Many people, especially new dog parents, like the ones that adopted during the pandemic, think that they can take their dogs on walks no matter the weather. But that’s not the case at all, as extreme weather can be harmful, or even lethal, to them.
In 2021, many places around the world experienced heat waves. Despite this, people continued taking their dogs out on walks. Many of them simply don’t know that they are doing something harmful for their pup.
Sean Coffey, a 25-year-old from the UK, shared a tip on TikTok. If you can’t hold the back of your hand on the pavement for five seconds, then it’s too hot. This video went viral, with many people agreeing and pointing out just how harmful this practice is. A dog won’t die from not being walked for a day, but they might die because of heatstroke.
If you’re experiencing extreme heat, make sure your dog has enough water and a cool place to stay inside. You can take them on walks late at night or early in the morning if the temperature is acceptable.