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As the summer sun bathes the UK in warmth, families are flocking to picturesque lakes and rivers, eager to revel in the joys of the great outdoors. However, a new campaign from Dogs Trust serves as a timely reminder that these serene waters can conceal hidden dangers for our furry companions. With alarming statistics revealing a spike in dog-related incidents, the charity urges pet owners to be vigilant and prioritise safety while enjoying the water.
Hidden Dangers in Idyllic Settings
Amidst the charming backdrop of Earlswood Lakes in the West Midlands, Emma-Jane Thomas, rehoming manager at Dogs Trust Kenilworth, cautions about the perils lurking in seemingly tranquil waters. “We’ve had all this hot weather, and millions of families are now spending time around open bodies of water, which makes it easy to overlook the risks,” she explained during a recent visit to the lakeside.
Accompanied by Bruno, her energetic dalmatian, Thomas highlights that while dogs are often drawn to water, not all can swim naturally. “Even the strongest swimmers can find themselves in trouble,” she added, keeping Bruno on a short lead to ensure his safety.
Campaigning for Canine Safety
In response to rising incidents, Dogs Trust has launched a campaign with the stark message: “If in doubt, keep your dog out.” The initiative aims to reduce the number of accidents involving dogs and their owners around waterways. Data gathered from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution indicates that there were 308 incidents involving dogs in UK waters between 2021 and 2025, with nearly all occurring along coastal areas. Alarmingly, a significant portion of these incidents transpired during the summer months, highlighting the need for increased awareness.
Furthermore, statistics from the National Water Safety Forum reveal ten accidental drowning deaths in England connected to dog rescues between 2019 and 2025, with an additional twelve linked to dog walking. The Canal & River Trust reported an unprecedented 39% rise in dog-related incidents in 2025 compared to the previous year, emphasising the urgent need for education on water safety.
Understanding the Risks
Thomas emphasises the importance of being aware of potential hazards in open waters. “When considering lakes and rivers, it’s crucial to stop, check, and evaluate what dangers might be present,” she advised. Hidden threats such as steep banks, submerged debris, and toxic blue-green algae can pose significant risks to both dogs and their owners.
“If your dog finds itself in distress, trying to rescue it could lead to two emergencies instead of one,” Thomas cautioned. She recommends calling the dog to a safe exit point if possible, or contacting emergency services for assistance if the situation escalates.
The presence of blue-green algae is particularly concerning. These harmful cyanobacteria thrive in warm weather, forming blooms that can be toxic. The Environment Agency warns that, while not all blooms are harmful, it’s best to err on the side of caution and assume they may be.
A Call for Awareness
Local residents echo Thomas’s concerns, with many noting the lack of adequate signage around potential hazards. Sally, a dog owner walking her rescue border collie Billy, remarked, “There’s definitely more dogs off-lead than on-lead here, which raises concerns about safety.”
A recent Dogs Trust survey revealed that a staggering 33% of dog owners underestimate the risks posed by blue-green algae, with 19% unaware that calm waters can still be treacherous. Alarmingly, 80% of respondents indicated they would enter the water to rescue their pet, despite the inherent dangers.
“We love that dogs enjoy the water, and we don’t want to take that away from them,” Thomas reassured. “The goal of our campaign is to ensure that pet owners can safely enjoy these areas while remaining aware of potential risks.”
Why it Matters
As summer beckons more families to the water’s edge, the call for heightened awareness around canine safety cannot be overstated. With the number of incidents on the rise, it is imperative that dog owners educate themselves about the perils that lurk beneath the surface. By fostering a culture of precaution and responsibility, we can ensure that our beloved pets continue to enjoy the joys of summer splashes without jeopardising their wellbeing.
