13/07/2026
Today, at approximately 10:40am, I saw someone walking their dog in 26°C heat.
I was on my way to pick up some dog supplies. The dog didn't appear distressed, and the owner looked a little uncomfortable, almost as though she knew people might judge her for being out at that time.
On my way back from the shop, at approximately 10:55am, I saw her again returning from the direction she'd been heading. I pulled over and politely said, "I just wanted to check if you knew it's quite hot to be walking your dog at this time of day."
Her response really made me think.
She said, "Yes, I'm very aware. That's why I'm rushing. I only have a very small garden, and unfortunately my dog has never learned to toilet there. I walk him early in the morning, then take him out briefly twice during the day just so he can relieve himself, before giving him another proper walk in the evening. We only live around the corner."
It was a reminder that we don't always know someone's circumstances.
As temperatures rise, please don't automatically assume someone is being irresponsible simply because you see them walking their dog during the day. Please don't jump straight into confrontation, and please don't take a photo and post it on social media without knowing the full story. Sadly, this is happening far too often.
If you're genuinely concerned about a dog's welfare, approach the owner calmly and start the conversation with kindness and education rather than criticism.
There are many reasons why someone may need to take their dog out briefly:
• Some dogs simply will not toilet in their garden. Holding urine for long periods can increase the risk of urinary tract infections, bladder problems, and discomfort.
• Some people don't have a garden at all.
• Some people may be away from home or on holiday and are doing the very best they can while trying to accommodate their dog's needs.
• Some owners genuinely don't realise how quickly heat can affect their dog and simply need a little education.
And yes, there will always be a small minority who simply don't care.
This elderly lady's dog was outside for around 20 minutes. I'd have been mortified if someone had shouted at her or publicly shamed her without knowing the facts, especially considering how vulnerable she may have felt.
As hotter summers become more common, kindness and understanding will become just as important as education. Of course, we should avoid walking dogs in the hottest part of the day whenever possible, seek shade, keep walks short if they are necessary, and always watch for signs of heat stress. But not every daytime walk is neglect.
Let's choose compassion over assumptions, conversations over confrontation, and education over public shaming.
Please note this picture is for attention, not from today.
