As families flock to enjoy the sun and seek out refreshing dips for their furry companions, the Dogs Trust has sounded the alarm regarding the dangers that lurk in UK waters. From hidden currents to toxic algae, the charity is urging dog owners to be vigilant to ensure the safety of their pets this summer.
Hidden Dangers Awaiting at the Water’s Edge
Nestled in the picturesque West Midlands, Earlswood Lakes is a popular destination for dog lovers and their four-legged friends. With its inviting waters and lush surroundings, it may seem like a paradise for pets. However, Emma-Jane Thomas, rehoming manager at Dogs Trust Kenilworth, warns that appearances can be deceiving.
“We’ve had all this hot weather, and millions of families are now spending time around open bodies of water,” she noted during a recent visit. “It’s easy to overlook the potential dangers.” With a Dalmatian named Bruno by her side, eager to leap into the water, Thomas emphasised that not all dogs are natural swimmers. Even those that are can find themselves in perilous situations.
The Dogs Trust has launched a campaign titled “If in doubt, keep your dog out” to highlight the risks associated with lakes, rivers, and other bodies of water.
Alarming Statistics on Water-Related Incidents
Data gathered by the Royal National Lifeboat Institution reveals a concerning trend: between 2021 and 2025, there were 308 incidents involving dogs in open water across the UK, primarily along the coast. A significant portion of these incidents—roughly a third—occurred during the summer months.
Furthermore, figures from the National Water Safety Forum indicate that there were 10 accidental drownings linked to attempts to rescue animals in England between 2019 and 2025, alongside 12 fatalities associated with dog walking. The Canal & River Trust also reported a troubling increase, noting a 39% rise in dog-related incidents in 2025 compared to the previous year.
The data highlights a critical point: many of these incidents involve dogs—or their owners—requiring assistance after entering the water. The risks are manifold, from strong currents to fatigue, making it imperative for dog owners to remain vigilant.
Awareness is Key: Understanding the Risks
“Before allowing your dog into open water, it’s crucial to stop, check, and consider the potential dangers,” Thomas advised. She pointed out that many hazards may not be immediately visible, such as steep banks that could trap a dog or submerged debris like broken glass and shopping trolleys.
One significant threat is blue-green algae, which can flourish in warmer temperatures. Thomas warned that while not all blooms are toxic, it’s impossible to tell by sight alone. “It’s best to assume they are harmful,” she remarked, underscoring the importance of being cautious.
Emily Mills, veterinary projects manager at Dogs Trust, elaborated on the health implications, explaining that dogs can fall ill after drinking contaminated water or cleaning their fur post-swim. Symptoms may manifest within just 15 minutes and can escalate rapidly, potentially proving fatal.
Local residents share these concerns. Sally, a dog owner who regularly walks her rescue border collie, Billy, expressed unease about the prevalence of dogs off-lead. “There’s more dogs off the lead than on the lead when you walk around here. It is a worry that there isn’t enough signage around,” she said, highlighting a common sentiment among pet owners.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap
A recent online survey conducted by Dogs Trust, which involved 2,000 dog owners across the UK, uncovered a troubling lack of awareness about water safety. Notably, 33% of respondents did not consider blue-green algae a serious threat to their pets. Alarmingly, 19% of dog owners were unaware that calm-looking water could still pose significant risks, while 80% indicated they would enter the water to rescue their dog, often putting themselves in danger.
“Dogs adore water, and we certainly don’t want to prevent that,” Thomas explained. “Our campaign aims to ensure that both dogs and their owners can enjoy these locations safely, with a clear understanding of the risks involved.”
Why it Matters
As summer heats up, the message from Dogs Trust is clear: vigilance is essential. With the number of incidents on the rise, dog owners must educate themselves about the dangers that open water can pose. By spreading awareness and taking precautionary measures, we can create safer environments for our beloved pets, allowing them to enjoy the joys of summer while keeping them out of harm’s way.
