In preparation for rising temperatures during the summer months and the increasing frequency of heatwaves, it is essential that pet owners take proactive steps to protect their dogs from the heat. While many people are aware of basic welfare considerations, fewer appreciate that a failure to do so may amount to a criminal offence. The issue is becoming increasingly acute, with the UK experiencing record-breaking temperatures and red extreme heat warnings in June 2026, with temperatures exceeding 38°C in some area
Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, dog owners and those responsible for animals are subject to strict legal duties. Section 4(1) of the Act makes it a criminal offence to cause an animal unnecessary suffering, whether through a deliberate act or an omission.
This means that an owner may be prosecuted where their failure to act results in harm. During hot weather, this is particularly relevant in situations such as:
- Leaving a dog in a hot car
- Failing to provide adequate shade or fresh water
- Walking a dog during extreme heat, resulting in heatstroke or injury
In addition to the prohibition on causing harm, section 9 of the Act imposes a positive duty of care on those responsible for animals. Under section 9(2)(e), an owner must ensure that an animal is protected from Pain, Suffering, Injury and Disease.
This duty requires owners to anticipate risks, including those posed by hot weather, and to take reasonable steps to mitigate them.
Common heat related offences
One of the most widely reported issues during heatwaves is dogs being left in parked vehicles. Even on a mild day, temperatures inside a car can rise rapidly to dangerous levels. For example, where the outside temperature is 22°C, the temperature inside a vehicle can reach approximately 47°C within an hour. Leaving a dog in such conditions, even for a short period, can:
- Cause severe distress and suffering
- Lead to heatstroke and death
Owners may also face intervention from authorities and, in some circumstances, members of the public may lawfully act to rescue an animal in distress.
Recent cases demonstrate that enforcement action is actively being taken. In 2026, a dog owner was prosecuted after leaving a dog in a car during hot weather, resulting in a community order and a 10-year disqualification from owning animals.
Exercise in hot weather
Recent guidance highlights that the risk is not limited to cars,exercising dogs in hot weather is a leading cause of heat-related illness, and owners should take particular care when deciding whether conditions are safe, with early morning and late evening walks generally being the safest option.
Inadequate Care in the Home or Garden
Failing to provide adequate shelter, ventilation, or access to water may also amount to neglect. For example:
- Leaving a dog in direct sunlight without shade
- Restricting access to drinking water
- Confining a dog in poorly ventilated spaces
What amounts to “reasonable steps” will depend on the individual animals characteristics.
Persons found guilty of offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 may face significant penalties:
Unnecessary suffering (section 4):
- Up to 5 years’ imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine
Failure to ensure animal welfare (section 9):
- Up to 26 weeks’ imprisonment, a community order, and/or an unlimited fine
Additional consequences may include disqualification from owning or keeping animals.
While the law imposes clear responsibilities on those caring for animals, each case will depend on its individual facts and circumstances. Early advice may be essential where concerns are raised or allegations arise.
Given the combination of hotter summers, clearer guidance from welfare organisations, and a willingness by courts to impose meaningful penalties, the risks for dog owners are both practical and legal.
Early advice may be essential where concerns are raised or allegations arise.
Get In Touch
Our Crime and Regulatory team advises and represents clients on a wide range of criminal matters, including animal welfare offences under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. This includes cases where concerns arise about neglect, failure to provide appropriate care, or harm caused to animals, including in hot weather conditions.
The team is regularly instructed at all stages of proceedings, from the pre-charge stage through to Magistrates’ and Crown Court matters.
If you would like to speak with a member of our Crime and Regulatory team about the issues raised in this article, please call +443300293148 or complete our online contact form.
