**
As the summer sun beckons families to embrace outdoor adventures, a new campaign from Dogs Trust is shedding light on the potential hazards lurking in the UK’s open waters for both dogs and their owners. With a significant rise in incidents involving pets around lakes, canals, and rivers, the initiative aims to educate dog owners about the unseen dangers that could turn a leisurely day by the water into a distressing emergency.
A Call to Awareness
The picturesque Earlswood Lakes in Solihull might seem like a dog’s paradise, with its serene waters and vibrant greenery, but it is also a site of caution. Emma-Jane Thomas, rehoming manager at Dogs Trust Kenilworth, expressed concern during a recent walk at the lakes, emphasising the importance of understanding the risks posed by open water. “We’ve had all this hot weather, and millions of families are now spending time around open bodies of water. It’s easy to overlook the dangers,” she remarked.
Thomas was accompanied by Bruno, an enthusiastic dalmatian eager to dive in. However, Bruno remained leashed, demonstrating a key message of the Dogs Trust campaign: “If in doubt, keep your dog out.” This initiative seeks to raise awareness about the potential for injuries and fatalities among dogs and their owners, especially during the peak summer months.
Alarming Statistics
Recent data gathered by Dogs Trust from the Royal National Lifeboat Institute revealed a staggering 308 incidents involving dogs in open water across the UK between 2021 and 2025. Most of these events occurred along the coast, with one-third taking place in the busy summer months. Additionally, figures from the National Water Safety Forum indicate there were ten accidental drowning deaths in England linked to animal rescue between 2019 and 2025, alongside twelve fatalities associated with dog walking.
Moreover, the Canal & River Trust reported that dog-related incidents reached an alarming five-year high in 2025, with a 39% increase from the previous year. Many of these cases involved dogs, or their owners attempting to rescue them, needing urgent assistance after entering the water. Thomas highlighted the risks posed by strong currents and fatigue, reminding owners to be vigilant.
Hidden Dangers Underwater
Thomas urges pet owners to remain cautious when around open water. “When you’re near these areas, always stop, check, and think about the possible dangers,” she advised. The hazards are not always easily visible, with steep banks posing a risk if a dog swims too far and cannot find a way out. Other concerns include submerged debris such as shopping trolleys, broken glass, and an abundance of underwater weeds or branches. Additionally, blue-green algae, which can be toxic to dogs, often proliferates in warmer weather.
Local resident Sally, who regularly walks her rescue border collie Billy, noted that the blue-green algae presents a significant threat. “Billy is always kept on a lead,” she said, acknowledging her worries about the lack of signage alerting dog owners to these risks.
Ignorance of Risks
An online survey conducted by Dogs Trust involving 2,000 UK dog owners revealed a concerning lack of awareness regarding these dangers. Approximately 33% of respondents did not believe that blue-green algae posed a serious risk to their pets, while 19% were unaware that calm-looking water could still be hazardous. Alarmingly, 80% of dog owners indicated they would enter the water to rescue their dog, despite the dangers to themselves.
“Dogs love the water, and we absolutely don’t want to stop that,” Thomas emphasised. “The aim of our campaign is to ensure that both owners and their dogs can enjoy these areas safely, with a clear understanding of the risks involved.”
Why it Matters
As the summer draws families to picturesque lakes and rivers, this campaign serves as a crucial reminder of the hidden dangers that can jeopardise the safety of beloved pets. With reports of rising incidents and fatalities, it is imperative for dog owners to educate themselves about the risks associated with open water. By fostering awareness and promoting precautionary measures, we can ensure that summer outings remain joyful experiences rather than tragic events. Empowering pet owners with knowledge not only protects their furry companions but also enhances the safety of everyone in these idyllic outdoor settings.
