THIS MONTH AT A GLANCE
The key environmental shifts shaping your dog’s walks this month
May brings longer days, warmer temperatures, and more opportunities to get outside with our dogs 🌿🐾
Whilst you get out more and more, here are a few things to be aware of this month:
☀️ Heat & heatstroke risk
Even moderate spring temperatures can affect some dogs — especially flat-faced breeds, older dogs, puppies, dogs with heart or breathing conditions, and very active dogs.
Warm spells early in the season can catch dogs before they’ve acclimatised.
Familiarise yourself with the signs of heat stress, take plenty of water out on walks, and make regular stops in shaded areas on warmer days.
Avoid high-intensity exercise during hot weather and remember that some days can be deceptively hot. High humidity can make it harder for dogs to cool down effectively, meaning even mild days can sometimes become riskier than expected.
🌾 High pollen levels
Pollen doesn’t just affect humans. Some dogs may become itchier, lick paws more frequently, develop watery eyes, or show signs of irritated skin after walks.
Keeping track of your dog’s symptoms can help identify patterns and make seasonal allergies easier to manage over time.
For dogs with known seasonal allergies, wiping paws after walks and monitoring pollen levels can really help.
🐍 Adders becoming active
Adders become more active during warmer spring weather as they emerge from hibernation, particularly around heathland, woodland edges, and sunny paths.
Most dogs will never encounter one — but awareness matters, especially for curious dogs exploring long grass or undergrowth.
Most bites occur on the legs or face and can cause a dark, painful swelling. You may also notice two small puncture wounds in the centre of the swelling.
If you think your dog may have been bitten, seek veterinary attention as soon as possible. Severity can vary depending on the location of the bite and the amount of venom injected.
Some dogs may also develop allergic reactions which can lead to breathing difficulties or, in severe cases, collapse.
🐝 Bee & wasp stings
As insect activity increases, so do sting incidents. Dogs investigating flowers, grass, or dropped food outdoors may be more at risk.
Most stings are mild, but stings around the face or mouth can become serious quickly due to swelling.
🚶 Busier outdoor spaces
Bank holidays, warmer weekends, and lighter evenings often mean more people, dogs, bikes, and activity outdoors.
For nervous or reactive dogs, familiar walks may suddenly feel more unpredictable.
Dog fight risk can increase as stress levels and environmental pressures change. Learn to read your dog’s cues — behaviour rarely changes suddenly. There is often a gradual build-up of subtle signs first.
🪨 Harder ground conditions
After dry spells, paths and pavements can become firmer underfoot.
Some dogs — particularly seniors or those with mobility issues such as arthritis — may tire more quickly or become sore after longer walks.
This effect can develop gradually over time, so keep track of how your dog feels both during and after walks. Incorporating rest days into your weekly routine can make a real difference.
Rest and recovery are an important part of keeping your dog healthy and comfortable long term.
