27th August 2026 • The HERALD • Page 85 v INDEPENDENT, LOCAL AND PROUD v Victoria: 07503 813594 Daniel: 07584 534818 SELF SERVICE DOG WASH No Appointment Necessary Forestsidegrooming.co.uk 189 Long Lane, SO45 2PA ANIMAL MAGIC Hidden Dangers For Dog Owners Advice from Years (https://www.years.com/pages/pet-panel) Experts reveal the overlooked risks facing dogs during Britain’s busiest outdoor season with gardens lling with BBQs and more families heading to parks, beaches and beauty spots, dog owners are being warned about the hidden seasonal hazards that can quickly turn a fun day out into an emergency trip to the vet. From discarded corn cobs and kebab skewers to stagnant water, grass seeds and heat exhaustion, many of the biggest summer dangers are everyday items owners o en don’t think twice about. Darren Beale, CEO of Years, says: “Summer means longer walks, family BBQs, picnics, camping trips and more time exploring outdoors. Dogs absolutely love it, but it also means they’re surrounded by far more opportunities to eat, drink or investigate things that could make them seriously ill. The good news is that most summer emergencies are completely preventable if owners know what to look out for before they leave the house.” The summer hazards every dog owner should know BBQ scraps and garden leftovers: While many owners know to avoid cooked bones, other common BBQ le overs can be just as dangerous. Corn on the cob, kebab skewers, onions, garlic, fatty meat trimmings and discarded food packaging can all pose serious health risks if swallowed. “One of the biggest dangers isn’t actually the BBQ itself, it’s what gets left behind afterwards,” says Darren, “Dogs are natural scavengers, so keeping leftovers, rubbish bags and bins securely out of reach is one of the simplest ways to prevent an emergency.” Lakes, ponds and stagnant water: Dogs should never be encouraged to drink from stagnant ponds, canals or slow-moving water, particularly during warmer weather when harmful bacteria and bluegreen algae are more likely to develop. “Always carry fresh drinking water with you,” Darren advises. “A thirsty dog is much more likely to drink from the nearest puddle or lake if they don’t have another option.” Heat and longer walks: Even active dogs can overheat surprisingly quickly during warm weather. Heavy panting, excessive drooling, slowing down, vomiting, confusion or reluctance to continue walking can all be early signs of heat-related illness. “Many dogs won’t stop on their own because they’re excited to be out,” Darren explains. “Walking earlier in the morning or later in the evening, choosing shaded routes and taking regular water breaks makes a huge difference.” Grass seeds: Tiny grass seeds become particularly common throughout summer and can work their way into paws, ears, noses and even under the skin. “A two-minute check after every walk can save a lot of pain later. Catching a grass seed early is far easier than having it removed by a vet.” Gardens and compost: Fresh compost, fertilisers, slug pellets and weed killers remain common causes of accidental poisoning during summer when many people are spending more time in the garden. “Dogs are naturally attracted to interesting smells, so compost heaps and recently treated flower beds can be surprisingly tempting. Store garden products securely and keep pets away from treated areas.” The hidden danger of summer bins: Over owing outdoor bins a er BBQs and picnics o en contain some of the biggest risks of all, including cooked bones, skewers, food wrappers and spoiled le overs. “People often focus on what’s on the table, but it’s usually the bin that causes the real problems once everyone has gone inside.” Darren’s safety checklist: • Carry fresh drinking water on every walk. • Never let dogs drink from stagnant ponds or lakes. • Walk during cooler parts of the day. • Keep BBQ le overs, skewers and bins securely out of reach. • Check paws, ears and coats for grass seeds a er every walk. • Store compost, fertilisers and slug pellets safely. • Supervise dogs around unfamiliar parks, campsites, beaches and picnic areas. • Watch for signs of overheating and head home if your dog begins struggling. East Boldre Hedgehog Rescue is a self-funded small rescue helping sick, injured and orphan hedgehogs in the New Forest. To help raise funds for the rescue centre volunteers sell little knitted hedgehogs at outreach events throughout the year. ey are looking for knitters to help knit more stock for future events. If you are able to help you can pick up a pattern from e Herald o ce in Hythe. Can You Knit To Help Hedgehogs?
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