Expert warns dog owners of soaring temperatures on the London Underground

This Take Your Dog to Work Day (Friday 20th June), dog owners are being warned of the risks of overheating, as tube temperatures reach 30 degrees. 

With highs of 30 degrees this week, dog owners are being warned of the significant risk that bringing their dogs along on their underground commute to work can pose. 

This Friday 20th, many will be participating in Take Your Dog to Work Day. However, with average temperatures in June 2024 reaching nearly 30 degrees on some underground lines such as the Victoria (29.6℃), Central (28.8℃), and Bakerloo (27.9℃) lines, the coming week poses a real danger of overheating to any dogs travelling underground.* 

With experts warning that even outdoor temperatures above 27℃ are risky for dogs, the lack of ventilation on the underground will only exacerbate the danger. 

Sticking to air-conditioned lines such as the Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, and Elizabeth lines is recommended, but if this isn’t possible, there are ways to ensure your dog stays cool and safe. Edward Creaser, dog expert and Director at the Natural Dog Food Company, shares some top tips for commuting to work with your dog. 

1. Cool, not cold, water is best for cooling dogs down.

Extreme temperatures can shock their system, so always opt for cool, not ice-cold, water when offering a drink. Keep a collapsible bowl or pet-safe bottle on hand and offer regular sips, especially in stuffy, underground environments.

2. Use cooling gear to ensure you keep their body temperature controlled.

Portable cooling gear can make a big difference when you’re on the move—lay a damp towel in their carrier, use a cooling mat if you’re stationary, or clip a travel fan to their crate. These tools help prevent overheating when air circulation is limited underground.

3. Offer frozen dog-friendly treats to keep them stimulated and cool 

A frozen dog treat not only helps keep their core temperature down, but also provides a tasty distraction during the journey. Remember to keep an eye on the frozen treats and limit their consumption to a small few, as overeating can risk problems with your dog freezing their stomach lining. 

4. Stay vigilant for heatstroke in your dog

It’s crucial to stay vigilant about the risks of heat-related illness. Common signs of heatstroke in dogs can include excessive panting, drooling, and dark red or bright red gums and tongue. 

Certain dogs are particularly vulnerable, including flat-nosed breeds such as Bulldogs and Pugs, larger dogs, heavy-coated dogs, senior dogs, and those with respiratory issues.

With Friday’s ‘Take Your Dog to Work Day’ falling on a particularly hot day, owners should come prepared when travelling with their dog on the underground to ensure their pet is kept as cool and safe as possible.