Weather tips

When it's hot

• The 7-second test: press the back of your hand on the pavement. If you can't hold it for 7 seconds, it's too hot for paws.
• Pavements stay hot for hours after sunset, so the first evening hour that looks green may still be warm underfoot. Grass and shade are kinder.
• Bring water and keep walks short and slow on warm days.
• Heatstroke signs: heavy panting, drooling, stumbling, bright red gums, vomiting. Get them somewhere cool and call a vet straight away.
• Skipping a walk is fine. Sniffing games, puzzle feeders and a paddling pool burn energy at home.

When it's cold

• Wind makes it worse. Walkies rates the "feels like" temperature, so a breezy 3° counts as colder than a still one.
• Coats help small, thin-coated, young and older dogs. Thick double coats (huskies, malamutes) usually don't need one.
• Below 0°, dog boots are a good idea. They protect paws from ice, salt and grit. Let your dog get used to them indoors first. If they won't wear boots, paw balm helps.
• Wipe paws after walks. Road salt and grit sting and are toxic if licked. Check between the toes for ice balls.
• Keep moving and keep walks shorter in very cold weather. Towel-dry a wet dog straight away.
• Stay off frozen ponds and lakes, and keep antifreeze out of reach. It tastes sweet and is deadly.
• Hypothermia signs: shivering, lifting paws, slowing down, whining or looking for shelter. Head home and warm them up.