Every summer, I see heartbreaking stories of dogs becoming seriously ill or dying after being exercised in high temperatures. Many of these tragedies are preventable, yet there is currently no specific legal deterrent for owners who knowingly put their dogs at such risk.

This petition comes from a place of compassion, not punishment. I understand that accidents can happen and that many owners simply need better education. However, when someone knowingly ignores the risks and exercises a dog in conditions that create a foreseeable danger of heatstroke, there should be accountability to protect animal welfare.

I believe dogs deserve the same consideration and protection from preventable harm that we expect for any vulnerable animal. My hope is that this petition will encourage responsible ownership, increase public awareness, and help prevent needless suffering and loss.

I am bringing this petition forward because I never want another family to experience the heartbreak of losing a beloved dog to a tragedy that could have been prevented.

We ask the Government to introduce legislation that:

Makes it an offence to knowingly exercise a dog in environmental conditions that create a foreseeable risk of heatstroke or severe heat-related illness.

Allows enforcement authorities to investigate and prosecute cases where there is sufficient evidence that an owner acted recklessly or ignored clear warnings.

Requires official public guidance on exercising dogs safely during periods of high temperatures and heatwaves.
Supports public education to help owners recognise the signs of heatstroke and understand how to prevent it.

The aim of this petition is not to punish responsible owners who make reasonable decisions, but to hold accountable those who knowingly place their dogs at serious and avoidable risk.