Pet warning to feature on Wales’ road signs during heatwave
Wales will continue to display messages warning motorists about the dangers of leaving dogs in a hot car during spells of warmer weather
Wales will continue to display messages warning motorists about the dangers of leaving dogs in a hot car during spells of warmer weather.
As this week’s heatwave continues, with temperatures in Wales approaching 31°C (88°F), the RSPCA has welcomed news from the new Welsh Government that during spells of hot weather, variable messaging signage on Wales' trunk road network will read: ‘CEIR POETH YN LLADD CWN / DOGS DIE IN HOT CARS’.
‘CEIR POETH YN LLADD CWN / DOGS DIE IN HOT CARS’
The Welsh Government became the first - and only - UK administration to display this message on variable messaging signage in 2019.
The continuation of the warning messages has now been confirmed by the newly appointed Deputy Minister for Transport Mark Hooper MS’ team.
Mark Hooper MS, the Deputy Minister for Transport said: "As Wales experiences a very hot spell of weather this week, I'm pleased to confirm that we will once again be displaying the ‘Dogs Die in Hot Cars’ warning on our trunk road network.
“Wales was the first country in the UK to use signage in this way, and I'm proud that we continue to lead the way in helping to protect animals' lives. I urge all dog owners to never leave their pet in a vehicle during warm weather – even for a short time – as the consequences can be fatal.”
RSPCA Cymru says it's delighted that this “important message” will be displayed
Dogs left alone in a car on a hot day can quickly become dehydrated, develop heatstroke or even die - and sadly the charity and police continue to receive numerous reports of dogs left in jeopardy.
The RSPCA urges members of the public to dial 999 if they see a dog in distress in a hot car.
Being locked in a warm vehicle can have damaging and even fatal consequences for the animals.
Dogs cannot cool themselves down when left in warm vehicles - even with the windows open. Consequently, problems like heatstroke can quickly materialise.
Billie-Jade Thomas, Senior Public Affairs Manager for RSPCA Cymru said: “Temperatures are continuing to soar this week and we all want everyone’s pets to be as safe and comfortable as possible.
“We are delighted that the new Welsh Government has confirmed it will continue to display Dogs Die in Hot Cars messaging on the trunk road network - it is such an important message and we urge owners to understand the danger of leaving their pet in a hot car, and never taking this risk with their dog’s lives.
“We’re encouraging owners to do some ‘pet homework’ in this current heat and ahead of the summer and do as much as they can in the heat to keep their animals safe - which is also all part of the Summer of Kindness - aiming to create a kinder summer for every animal.
“There’s plenty that people can be doing now, from getting into the habit of checking the temperature forecasts every day to knowing the best way to cool down their dog after a walk; or planning how they will change their daily routine during hot spells, and knowing how to act in the event of heatstroke.”
Tips to plan ahead for the hot weather:
- Clue up on the signs of heatstroke in your pet, so you can act early
- Ask your vet for a weight-check for your dog to see if they are a healthy weight and whether they are at more risk of heatstroke
- Consider how much time your dog may be spending inside a vehicle, how you will keep them hydrated, and how you would keep them cool if you were stuck in traffic or break down
- If appropriate, research trusted local pet sitting businesses so you know you can safely leave your dog at home in the cool, instead of taking them along for a family day out in hot weather
- Place some extra water bowls in different rooms in the house and in the garden to encourage your dog to stay hydrated