Every dog deserves to live in a safe, comfortable, and caring environment. Across the UK, many dogs are kept in outdoor kennels in people’s back gardens for long periods, regardless of rising temperatures and extreme weather conditions.

As the UK experiences hotter summers, outdoor kennels can become dangerously warm, even when they are shaded. Dogs are at risk of heat stress, dehydration, heatstroke, sunburn, and unnecessary suffering. They cannot choose to move into a cooler environment or tell us when they are struggling.

While some outdoor kennels are well maintained and suitable for short periods, no dog should be left outside for extended periods in high temperatures without proper shelter, fresh water, ventilation, regular monitoring, and access to a cooler indoor environment when needed.

We are calling on the UK Government and local authorities to:

Introduce clearer welfare standards for dogs kept in outdoor kennels.
Ensure dogs have protection from extreme heat and other severe weather.
Strengthen enforcement of existing animal welfare laws where dogs are suffering due to inadequate living conditions.
Raise public awareness about the dangers of keeping dogs outdoors during hot weather.
This petition is not about preventing responsible dog owners from using outdoor kennels. It is about ensuring that every dog is protected from avoidable suffering and that their welfare comes first.

By signing this petition, you are supporting better protections for dogs and helping to ensure that no dog is left to suffer in extreme heat simply because they are kept outdoors.

Dogs rely on us to keep them safe. Together, we can help improve their welfare and ensure they receive the care and protection they deserve.