Vets TikTok warning to dog owners over viral challenge that can cause 'serious harm'

Daily Record

23-05-2025

Vet Sean McCormack says the trend 'baffles' him that dog owners 'would even think to do this to their own pet dog, who loves, trusts and looks up to them as their apparent best friend'
A TikTok trend has been condemed by vets who warn it can cause serious harm to their dog. Animal charities including the RSPCA, Blue Cross and PETA have all issued calls to pet owners to avoid the latest push on the social media site.
Similar to the Ice Bucket Challenge, which raised awareness for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) in 2014, this current trend involves owners pouring ice-cold water over their unsuspecting dogs. This aims to usually snap light-hearted or humorous content.
‌
However, Sean McCormack, Head Vet at Tails.com, is warning it is not only uncomfortable for the animal but also can cause serious harm. He explained: 'While pet-related content is hugely popular and often fun to share, suddenly pouring cold water over dogs will cause shock and unnecessary discomfort, particularly if repeated for multiple takes.
‌
"It's important to remember that dogs may not understand what's happening, and most will find the experience stressful. It really baffles me that dog owners would even think to do this to their own pet dog, who loves, trusts and looks up to them as their apparent best friend.'
Over recent weeks the trend has grown in popularity sparking animal welfare charities to urge pet owners to not take on the challenge. In one social media post Blue Cross called on owners to think twice before taking part.
It said: "Please stop using your pets for likes on social media. Trends like these might seem like some harmless fun, but pets aren't toys to be exploited, humiliated or objectified for our own entertainment."
Ryan Neile, Head of Behaviour at national pet charity Blue Cross, said: "This is an upsetting trend where you can see the animals are visibly confused by the human's behaviour in these videos. Dogs don't understand what is happening and we abuse their trust in us when we treat animals in this way.
"We're concerned that some people continue to use their pets as props to get more likes on their social media without thought for the shock and fear they are causing to the animal. We're also worried that others will follow this trend, putting animals across the country at risk.
‌
"Pets are not toys to be exploited, humiliated or objectified for our own entertainment, and videos like this can lead to others following suit with dogs and cause serious behavioural issues.'
TikTok, where the trend has been widely shared, has also included an AI-generated search advisory to highlight potential concerns and encourage responsible content creation. Sean added: "Just because something is trending doesn't mean it's safe or appropriate for every pet.
"Instead of chasing viral fame at the expense of a pet's wellbeing, owners are encouraged to prioritise the safety of their pup. There are plenty of ways to showcase pets on social media that are both entertaining and respectful of their needs'.
‌
Sean explained why this trend poses serious harm to dogs. This is what he says:
Temperature regulation and cold shock
Dogs regulate their body temperature differently from humans, and a sudden drenching with icy water can cause a rapid drop in body temperature. This can be particularly uncomfortable (and potentially more serious) for smaller breeds, dogs with thin or short coats, puppies, and senior dogs.
‌
In some rare cases, especially if a dog has underlying health conditions, extreme cold exposure could trigger symptoms of hypothermic shock, including changes in heart rate, breathing, and circulation. While healthy dogs are generally resilient, it's important to be cautious when it comes to extreme temperature shifts.
Respiratory risks
Pouring water onto a dog's head increases the risk of water being inhaled. This is especially the case if the dog panics or gasps while the water is being poured.
This could, in some instances, lead to aspiration pneumonia, a condition that occurs when foreign substances like water, food, or vomit enter the lungs instead of the digestive tract. Though relatively uncommon, it can be serious if not promptly treated.
‌
Psychological stress and behavioural effects
Dogs, unlike humans, don't understand the context of social media trends. They might believe being suddenly doused in cold water is a threat or punishment, potentially triggering a "fight or flight" response.
This can cause a surge in cortisol (the stress hormone), which may result in behaviour that's out of character, such as snapping, growling, or increased anxiety. In some cases, it could lead to a lasting fear of water, buckets, or even create tension in the bond between dog and owner.
Ice cube injuries
Some small ice cubes in water bowls can help keep dogs cool in warm weather, however large or broken chunks of ice are a different matter. They can become choking hazards, or if stepped on, can injure a dog's sensitive paw pads, or even cause a slip or fall for owners.
Additionally, dogs with sensitive teeth may find chewing ice uncomfortable or painful.