Waggington Walkies

25/06/2026

"It’s far better for dogs to miss a few walks completely than to suffer the potentially fatal consequences of overheating or heatstroke." 🐕🥵

RSPCA animal welfare experts are recommending a 'dog lockdown' for the next two days amid the red weather warnings.

Taking these extreme measures to keep pets indoors has been suggested to safeguard animals during weather expected to reach highs of 37°C in parts of the region.

RSPCA Cymru is encouraging owners to put measures in place now - from checking forecasts to plan cooler walking times, or even axe them altogether for a day or two - to ensure their animals stay safe and comfortable.

Lauren Bennett, expert in dog welfare at the RSPCA, said: "The hot temperatures have arrived in Wales and it means that pet owners need to take action now. During a red weather warning, dog owners should think of it like a temporary lockdown for their pets.

"For the next 24-48 hours, routines need to immediately change. This isn’t the time for walks, chasing the ball or playing fetch, or exposing pooches to energetic exercise."

21/06/2026

What an absolute pleasure it’s been to look after Kiki Pittam gang for 2 weeks whilst she was on holiday 🥹

Been fun getting to know some new furry faces. You might just be seeing a little more of these doggos on this page in the future and a little bit of Liv on Kiki’s, so watch this space… 👀🐶✨

26/05/2026

As dog walkers, it’s our responsibility to put dogs first and in UK heat over 24°C, long walks or full days out in direct sun simply isn’t safe for many dogs… let alone 33°C!!

Heat stroke can happen fast and be fatal, and hot pavements can burn paws in seconds. If you can’t hold the back of your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for them.

Even if it means early morning toilet breaks or waiting until after sunset, keep them cool, hydrated, and in the shade. During peak heat, skip unnecessary walks, quick out for the loo and straight back inside is more than enough.

Missing one walk is far safer than risking heat stroke or burnt paws. Please don’t be selfish, protect your dogs 🐾☀️

22/05/2026

So important for owners to be aware of.

22/05/2026

Sorry we’ve been quiet recently, had lots happening! Here’s some of our fave photos from this week 🥹🐶🐾💚

20/05/2026

Every summer I hear things like, “You must love this weather!” ☀️

And honestly… while the sunshine is lovely, heatwaves are actually one of the most stressful times for us dog walkers!
When temperatures get too high, walks need to be shortened, rearranged, or cancelled completely for the safety of the dogs.
If I don’t walk them, I don’t get paid, but their health and comfort will always come first. That will always be my first priority.

During heatwaves us dog walkers are up early, checking temperatures, moving walks around to cooler times, trying to fit everyone in safely, planning shady routes, carrying extra water, and making difficult decisions about what is and isn’t safe for each dog.
On top of that, we are also out in the heat ourselves doing multiple walks throughout the day.

Overheating, dehydration, and heatstroke are very real risks for dogs, especially during the middle of the day. No walk is worth putting a dog in danger.
So while the sunny weather looks lovely from the outside, for dog walkers it often means long days, lost income, schedule stress, and a lot of worry about keeping dogs safe!

Thank you to all my wonderful clients for being understanding and flexible when plans need to change in hot weather. It really is appreciated!

As always, I will always notify you all of any changes I need to make to your dog's walks.
Please always feel free to message me with any questions or concerns!

Please remember:
🐾 Early morning & evening walks are safest.
🐾 Hot pavements can burn paws.
🐾 Dogs overheat much faster than humans.
🐾 Rest days are sometimes the kindest option.

Stay safe and keep your pups cool! 😎☀️

17/05/2026

Okay, this is the kind of wholesome news we needed today.

South Korea is being praised by animal rights groups after passing a landmark law banning the dog meat industry.

The legislation, approved in January 2024, bans the breeding, slaughter, sale and purchase of dog meat for human consumption and will be fully enforced from February 2027.

Under the new law, farmers and restaurant owners have been given a three-year grace period to transition into other businesses before the ban officially takes effect.

Anyone caught violating the law after 2027 could face penalties including up to three years in prison or fines of up to 30 million won.

Animal welfare organisations say the move could help save tens of thousands of dogs every year and marks a major turning point for animal rights in the country.

The decision has already sparked huge reactions online, with many people calling it a historic step forward for animal protection.

22/04/2026

Sorry to tell you all like this… we’re moving 🤣

Italy became one of the first countries to recognize caring for a sick dog as a valid reason for paid emergency leave after a court ruled in favor of an employee who stayed home to care for her pet.
The decision relied on existing animal protection laws, which treat abandoning or neglecting a pet as a legal offense. By recognizing the owner's legal responsibility to provide care, the ruling effectively acknowledged that tending to a sick animal can be considered a legitimate and necessary duty.
The case drew attention internationally because it highlighted changing attitudes toward pets, recognizing them not just as property but as dependents that require proper care and responsibility.