Petition created by: Basil’s Cool Paws Campaign

Location: Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire

Every summer, dogs across the UK suffer painful paw burns and life‑threatening heatstroke - often because their owners don’t realise how dangerous hot pavements and warm weather can be.

We call on Tewkesbury Borough Council to install clear, visible dog heat‑safety signs in key public areas - including footpaths, parks, popular walking routes, shops, and car parks.

Many dog owners are unaware that

• Pavements can reach temperatures high enough to burn paws within seconds.
• Dogs can develop heatstroke in minutes, even on warm but cloudy days.
• Short walks in the wrong conditions can lead to emergency vet treatment.
• Heatstroke cases are rising nationally.  The Royal Veterinary College’s Vet Compass data shows a sharp increase in heatstroke cases in dogs, especially linked to hot cars and hot walks. This indicates the risk is real and growing.

• PETA reported 151 heat‑related animal deaths in 2025 across the country, and 16 so far in 2026.

• By installing simple, low‑cost signs reminding owners to check pavement temperatures, avoid walking dogs in the heat, and not leaving them in cars (even with windows open), the council can help prevent avoidable suffering and promote responsible dog ownership across the community.

Why this matters
Tewkesbury is a dog‑loving town with many walking routes, but currently no public signage alerting owners to the dangers of heat risks. Raising awareness saves lives and protects dogs like Basil - my dog who inspired this campaign.

What we are asking for
We, the undersigned, urge Tewkesbury Borough Council to:

• Install dog heat‑safety signs in high‑traffic public areas.
• Use clear, simple messaging (e.g. “If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws”).
• Introduce seasonal reminders during warm weather.
• This is a small action with a big impact on animal welfare within our community.

Please sign and share
Your signature will help protect dogs across Tewkesbury and encourage safer choices during warm weather.