Hot pavements and cooling

Tarmac holds heat longer than grass, and a mild air temperature can still mean a painful pavement. The hand test above is the practical check. The pavement tool asks for that judgement. It does not read the ground for you.

Change the walk before you shop

• Earlier or later in the day is often enough.
• Grass and shade beat a black path.
• Take water you packed. See the water on walks guide.
• Never leave a dog in a parked car.

Mats and vests

A cooling mat is somewhere to lie down, at home or in the shade. A cooling vest is clothing, and plenty of dogs will not walk in clothing. How either product cools is to be confirmed. Neither is a reason to keep walking once the pavement has failed the hand test.

If you are worried about heatstroke, that is urgent veterinary care. Do not wait on a delivery.