Wales will continue displaying roadside warnings about the dangers of leaving dogs in hot cars, as temperatures across the country climb during this week’s heatwave.
The Welsh Government has confirmed that variable message signs on the trunk road network will again show the bilingual alert “CEIR POETH YN LLADD CWN / DOGS DIE IN HOT CARS” — a move first introduced in 2019 following campaigning by the RSPCA.
The decision has been welcomed by the charity as temperatures in Wales approach 31°C.
Dogs in hot weather
Mark Hooper MS, Deputy Minister for Transport, said: “As Wales experiences a very hot spell of weather this week, I’m pleased to confirm that we will once again be displaying the ‘Dogs Die in Hot Cars’ warning on our trunk road network.
“Wales was the first country in the UK to use signage in this way, and I’m proud that we continue to lead the way in helping to protect animals’ lives. I urge all dog owners to never leave their pet in a vehicle during warm weather – even for a short time – as the consequences can be fatal.”
The RSPCA says the signs are a vital reminder, reaching tens of thousands of motorists. The charity continues to receive reports of dogs left in vehicles during hot weather – a situation that can quickly lead to dehydration, heatstroke or death.
The charity urges anyone who sees a dog in distress in a hot car to dial 999 immediately.
Billie‑Jade Thomas, Senior Public Affairs Manager for RSPCA Cymru, said: “Temperatures are continuing to soar this week and we all want everyone’s pets to be as safe and comfortable as possible.
“We are delighted that the new Welsh Government has confirmed it will continue to display ‘Dogs Die in Hot Cars’ messaging on the trunk road network. It is such an important message and we urge owners to understand the danger of leaving their pet in a hot car, and never taking this risk with their dog’s lives.”
The charity is also encouraging owners to prepare for the summer by checking forecasts, planning cooler‑time walks, keeping pets hydrated and knowing the signs of heatstroke.
More advice is available via RSPCA heatstroke guidance and the charity’s Summer of Kindness campaign.
Tips to plan ahead for the hot weather
- Clue up on the signs of heatstroke in your pet, so you can act early. The RSPCA’s website has a wealth of information: https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/dogs/health/heatstroke
- Ask your vet for a weight-check for your dog to see if they are a healthy weight and whether they are at more risk of heatstroke
- Consider how much time your dog may be spending inside a vehicle, how you will keep them hydrated, and how you would keep them cool if you were stuck in traffic or break down.
- If appropriate, research trusted local pet sitting businesses so you know you can safely leave your dog at home in the cool, instead of taking them along for a family day out in hot weather.
- Plan #DogsAtDawn and #DogsAtDusk walks to stay safe, and encourage others to walk their dogs during the cooler times of day. Don’t forget to post your selfies to social media and tag @RSPCA_Official
- Start checking out your home for the coolest areas so you can put things in place to leave your dog safely and comfortably when you have to pop out. Avoid conservatories or rooms in direct sunlight.
- Check with your groomer when your dog’s next appointment is (they may be getting booked up) and be sure to discuss the best grooming plan for your dog’s coat type during hot weather.
- Place some extra water bowls in different rooms in the house and in the garden to encourage your dog to stay hydrated.
- Dig out any puzzle feeders or Kong toys that can be used for frozen treats you can make ahead of time and keep in the freezer.
- Get into the habit of checking the upcoming forecast every day and take particular notice of the “feels like” temperature- don’t just look for the sun icon.
- Sign up for heat-health alerts and take extra care during these periods, as the risk of heatstroke significantly increases for both people and dogs.