Protect Your Paws: Pets At Home Warns About The Dangers Of Hot Artificial Grass This Summer 

Pets at Home is warning pet owners to take extra care this summer when it comes to astro turf. With the growing trend for artificial grass in UK gardens, many pet owners are not aware of the risk it could pose to their pets’ delicate paws. And with the Met Office1 predicting 2024 to be potentially the hottest year on record, pet owners need to be even more vigilant this summer.  

It comes as new research from Pets at Home, reveals that whilst 76% of pet owners understand the risks of hot pavements, only 42% admitted to knowing astro turf could also be a risk.  

Kathryn Patel, Head of Pets, at Pets at Home said:

“Astro turf is a relatively new addition to people’s homes so pet owners may not realise the risks. Artificial grass is made largely from plastic so on very hot days it can reach temperatures as high as 40 degrees which is considerably hotter than natural grass. The same rules apply as for hot pavements – check it with your hand and if it’s too hot to touch, then it’s not safe for your pet.” 

Here Kathryn shares her additional tips for keeping your pet safe this summer – both at home or away. 

1. Pets can wear sun cream too… but it’s best not to share.

Research by Pets at Home reveals 12% of those surveyed admit to using human sun cream on their dog. Products specially designed for pets are available and contain ingredients that are safe to use on their ears and nose. Dogs and cats with light and short coats can also benefit from wearing sun cream.  

2. Sand safe playtime.

If you are visiting the beach this summer remember your dog may not be used to running on that type of surface. Due to its uneven and shifting surface it can cause joint and orthopaedic injuries, so make sure your dog doesn’t overexert itself if it’s not used to visiting the beach. Sand can also get very hot so always check it’s a safe temperature with your hand first. 

3. Seatbelts for every passenger.

For your four-legged friends joining you on a summer road trip, rule 57 of the Highway Code states that when travelling in the car, dogs must be suitably restrained at all times. With the staycation boom still at a high, this is an important rule to note. New research by Pets at Home reveal that 43% of those surveyed didn’t realise they could be subject to a £5,000 fine if their dog isn’t suitably restrained. Should you be involved in an accident and there is no evidence you restrained your pet, your insurance may also be void.  Always use the right harness for the size of your dog and purchase from a reputable supplier. Pets at Home 3 Peaks harness has been crash tested to FMVSS 213 child restraint systems standards. It not only keeps your dog safe, but ensures the driver isn’t distracted by a dog that’s on the move. 

4. Natural air conditioning.

Resist the urge to trim or shave your pet’s fur to help keep them cool. Their fur acts as insulation and helps the body to regulate its temperature naturally. On very hot days move their favourite bed to a cool, shady spot and encourage them to stay out of the sun. Or provide cool, damp towels or cooling pads for them to lie on.  

Fish ponds

With temperatures expected to soar this summer, this may pose a risk for fish kept outdoors. To ensure owners are taking care of their fish ponds, they must monitor oxygen levels and ensure this has increased through warmer days. Pond air pumps, fountains or other surface agitating water features can help. Submerged aquatic plants can also produce oxygen through photosynthesis but can also remove oxygen through respiration – oxygen levels are particularly low at night, so it’s important to keep an eye on plant growth and remove any dead and decaying plant material throughout.