Walk to School Week – Walking Your Dog on the School Run

Over 100,000 Join ‘Walk to School Week’

Walk to School Week, taking place from 19th to 23rd May, is expected to see over 100,000 pupils and parents actively walking to school. It’s the perfect opportunity to include your dog in the morning routine, offering benefits for both physical health and mental wellbeing.

Bringing your dog along on the school run can help promote responsibility and empathy in children, encourage healthy habits, and provide your dog with extra socialisation and exercise.

However, with warmer temperatures predicted, it’s important to take precautions to keep your dog safe and comfortable. Here are some top tips for walking your dog during the school run in hot weather:

1. Check Pavement Temperatures Before You Leave

With forecasts expecting highs consistently over 20°C, it’s vital to ensure the pavement isn’t too hot for your dog’s paws. A good rule of thumb: if you can’t comfortably hold your bare foot or hand on the pavement for five seconds, it’s too hot for your dog.

Plan walks in the cooler parts of the day where possible – typically before 9am or after 6pm.

2. Watch for Signs of Heatstroke

Searches for “heatstroke in dogs” reach their peak in May, and for good reason. Dogs can quickly become overheated, especially flat-faced breeds (like Pugs and Bulldogs), large dogs, older dogs, and those with thick coats or breathing difficulties.

Common signs of heatstroke include:

• Heavy or rapid panting
• Bright red or dark gums and tongue
• Lethargy or confusion
• Vomiting or diarrhoea

If you notice any of these signs, move your dog to a shaded area immediately and offer water. Seek veterinary attention without delay.

3. Bring Plenty of Water – For Both of You

Pack a stainless steel water bottle, which helps keep water cool throughout your walk. Also bring a collapsible travel bowl for your dog to drink from. Offer cool, not icy, water, as extremely cold water can cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing heat loss.

4. Supervise Interactions With Children

While many children love dogs, not all know how to approach them safely. Always supervise interactions between your dog and young children. Teach your child – and their friends – how to greet dogs calmly and respectfully.

5. Keep Your Dog on a Lead

School runs are often busy, with crowded pavements and lots of noise and excitement. Keeping your dog on a lead ensures their safety – and everyone else’s.

Make sure your dog’s basic training is up-to-date, with commands like sit, stay, and leave it helping to maintain control and avoid unwanted interactions with other children or dogs.

6. Always Clean Up After Your Dog

It should go without saying, but always carry poo bags and dispose of waste responsibly. Carry antibacterial wipes or spray as a backup.

Leaving dog waste is not only antisocial – it can also pose a health risk and may lead to a hefty fine. Be a responsible owner and a good role model to others by cleaning up after your pet.

Bonus Tip: Allow Extra Time for the Walk to School

Dogs love to sniff! Leave a little extra time in the morning so your dog can enjoy a few scent stops. It makes the walk more enriching for them – and gives you a more relaxed start to the day.

Make Walk to School Week a family activity – paws and all. With a little preparation, it can be a healthy, enjoyable, and safe experience for everyone involved.

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