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Forbes
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- Forbes
The 6 Best Dog Crates, According To Pet Experts And Dog Owners
When you start crate-shopping for your dog, it's easy to underestimate how much the littlest details matter. The best dog crates aren't just basic cages, after all; they're designed to support your dog's natural habits and daily comfort while still keeping them safe, with secure latches, sturdy frames and plenty of ventilation. Our top overall pick, the Midwest Homes for Pets Life Stages Crate, meets these requirements while being affordable and versatile enough to last through your dog's entire life. It has a durable build, great airflow, multiple entry points and an adjustable divider for puppies, making it a comfortable place your dog(s) can use for years. The best dog crates from Midwest, Diggs, Gunner and more offer safety, comfort and peace of mind. Illustration: Forbes / Image: Retailers But no matter how well-made a crate is, picking the right size is essential. "Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably," says certified professional dog trainer and author Nicole Ellis. If your pup is still growing, Ellis recommends investing in a crate that has divider panels in the largest size they'd eventually need. "This gives you one crate for their whole life and avoids the 'pee in one corner, nap in the other' problem." Once you've nailed down size, you can consider your dog's specific personality or habits. For example, nervous dogs might feel safer in an ultra-secure option like the Impact High Anxiety Dog Crate, while style-conscious pet owners might prefer something sleeker, such as the furniture-inspired Fable Pets Crate. Understanding your dog's unique needs will ultimately point you toward the crate they'll happily settle into every day. Our Top Recommendations Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 16 inches (extra small) up to 48 x 30 x 33 inches (extra large) | Weight: Approximately 12 to 48 pounds | Sizes: 6 (extra small to extra large) | Materials: Metal wire, plastic tray | Foldable: Yes What you'll love: Adjustable divider lets you start small for puppies Sturdy construction Two doors offer versatile placement options Removable bottom tray is easy to clean and replace Keep in mind: Basic appearance; looks like a typical wire crate On larger sizes, crate can be heavy and awkward to move alone My family has had the Midwest Homes for Pets Life Stages crate for more than two decades. It's moved houses with us and been used by three different dogs, from tiny puppies through adulthood. I used the crate with its adjustable divider when my current dog was an eight-pound puppy, and now at four years old and 55 pounds, she still sleeps in it every night. Even after decades of constant use, the crate's metal frame still feels completely sturdy and barely shows any signs of wear. There are two doors—one on the front, one on the side—each secured with slide-bolt latches that include a "Paw Block" mechanism to prevent Houdini dogs from pawing the door open from inside. It also features rounded corners, so puppies won't snag themselves on sharp edges when they're moving around. The wire construction allows for plenty of ventilation, and while some dogs prefer the openness, mine has always liked a crate cover to create a den-like environment. While the plastic tray on the bottom has held up surprisingly well over the years, you can easily purchase a replacement if it gets damaged or overly soiled. When you do need to clean it, just pull out the tray, rinse it off and slide it right back in. And when I've needed to pack the crate away or move it between rooms, the entire thing folds completely flat in seconds. Pairing the Midwest crate with one of our favorite tested dog beds , like this orthopedic option from Bark Box, can help create a cozier environment your pup will love. Diggs Diggs Revol Dog Crate Dimensions: 25.3 x 17.4 x 18.5 inches (small) up to 42.5 x 28 x 30 inches (large) | Weight: 25 to 53 pounds | Sizes: 4 (small to large) | Materials: Steel mesh, reinforced plastic, aluminum | Foldable: Yes What you'll love: Collapsible design with wheels and a handle makes moving it around easier Top-access door lets you gently lift puppies in and out Smooth mesh and rounded edges help keep paws and jaws safe Specifically recommended by dog trainers Keep in mind: More expensive than some others on our list Not available in sizes suitable for giant breeds The Diggs Revol is undeniably a major upgrade in both quality and cost compared to typical wire crates, starting around $500 and climbing to nearly $1,000 depending on size. But several trainers and veterinarians we spoke to, including Ellis, specifically recommended it because of safety-oriented details that aren't standard in most crates. For example, the Revol has smooth, diamond-shaped steel mesh, which helps avoid paws or jaws getting caught, and rounded corners that minimize the risk of injury if your dog moves around a lot inside. These safety improvements might be worth the investment if you have a particularly anxious or active dog, or a puppy who tends to paw or bite at their crate. Some of its other features aren't necessarily unique: it has a removable plastic tray and adjustable divider, just like more affordable crates. But the Revol does add details that make regular use a bit simpler. It folds flat for storage and has built-in wheels and a sturdy handle, so you can roll it between rooms without having to pick it up. (That makes a huge difference, especially with larger crates.) An extra door on top helps if you're frequently lifting a nervous or wriggling puppy in or out rather than coaxing them through the front. Diggs also offers additional accessories you can purchase separately, like a crate-mounted treat dispenser for positive reinforcement during training or an orthopedic pad designed specifically to fit inside the crate. Dimensions: 30.5 x 20.5 x 26 inches (medium) up to 48.5 x 32.5 x 36 inches (2XL) | Sizes: 5 (medium to 2XL) | Materials: Heavy-duty aluminum alloy, zinc-plated steel latches | Foldable: No (can be disassembled) What you'll love: Guaranteed escape-proof construction Lifetime guarantee covers any damage caused by your dog Small ventilation holes for airflow Specifically designed to reduce anxiety by providing a secure, enclosed environment Keep in mind: Somewhat expensive Heavy and not designed to move frequently To be clear, if you have a well-behaved, calm pup, you don't need something like this crate. But for owners who know the frustration (and stress) of coming home to find their dog has broken out of another crate, hurt themselves in the process or damaged doors, walls or furniture in their panic, this crate is worth considering. Impact specifically built it for dogs who can escape anything and those who suffer severe separation anxiety. It's constructed from extra-thick aluminum with heavy-duty butterfly latches and a reinforced door system. Even determined chewers and strong dogs won't easily break this crate apart, and if by some miracle your dog does, Impact covers replacement parts or even the entire crate for life. The smaller ventilation holes are specifically designed to prevent dogs from catching teeth or claws in the openings while still allowing adequate airflow. It's designed to help anxious dogs feel calmer and more secure by creating a darker, quieter space they can't break free from. Though expensive (it ranges from around $1,000 up to $1,600), for the right dog—one who has seriously struggled in standard crates—it may finally offer the peace of mind you've been looking for. Dimensions: 20 x 14 x 14 inches (smallest) up to 42 x 28 x 32 inches (largest) | Weight: Not listed | Sizes: 5 (20-inch to 42-inch lengths) | Materials: 600D fabric, hex mesh fabric, steel tube frame | Foldable: Yes What you'll love: Extremely lightweight and folds flat for easy storage and transport Sets up in seconds without tools Multiple zippered doors (front, side, top) for easy access Keep in mind: Not suitable for dogs prone to chewing or escaping Best for crate-trained dogs comfortable in soft-sided crates My dog regularly stays overnight with family, and she's always preferred sleeping in her crate over settling loose at night. Rather than lugging around our heavier wire crate when traveling, we've used EliteField's soft-sided crate for years. It's lightweight, folds completely flat and slides right into our trunk, while leaving plenty of space for luggage or anything else we need. Setting it up takes just a few seconds; one person can pop it open and zip it together without needing help. Once assembled, the crate fits her regular crate bed nicely (though it does also include a fleece pad), and the zippered mesh doors let her easily walk in or out. This crate works best for dogs like mine, who already feel comfortable in a crate and won't try chewing or clawing their way out. (Puppies or particularly determined escape artists might require something tougher.) But it's perfect for weekend trips or any travel where you want your dog's familiar sleeping spot without hauling around something bulky. There are even built-in accessory pockets and a washable cover, and some color options have roll-down curtains for dogs who prefer a quieter and more enclosed feel. Dimensions: 24.5 x 18.6 x 19 inches (small) up to 40.25 x 28 x 33.25 inches (large) | Weight: 27 to 72 pounds | Sizes: 4 (small to large) | Materials: Double-walled rotomolded plastic, aluminum frame, stainless steel hardware | Foldable: No What you'll love: Certified 5-star crash-tested by the Center for Pet Safety Double-walled design provides twice the impact protection Specifically built to withstand car accidents Keep in mind: Heavy and bulky; takes up a lot of trunk space Expensive, starting around $500 and going above $900 for larger sizes If you regularly drive long distances with your dog, or safety is your number-one priority on the road, Gunner's G1 Kennel is worth the investment. It's one of very few dog crates tested and certified by the Center for Pet Safety (CPS), earning the highest possible crash-test rating. Lindsey Wolko, founder of the CPS, emphasizes that a crate must be crash-tested and properly secured with strength-rated anchor straps (never bungee cords) to offer true protection in an accident. Gunner's crate passes these rigorous tests, making it one of the safest crates you can buy for traveling with your dog by car. That said, this crate isn't the right choice for everyone. It's heavy (up to 72 pounds empty) and pretty cumbersome; once it's installed, you're probably not going to move it very often. If you only take short trips around town or need more trunk space for groceries, kids' stuff or luggage, this crate might feel like too much. Wolko suggests considering a crash-tested harness in those situations. But if you do travel often and want total peace of mind that your dog is safe on the road, the Gunner crate is among the best protection available. Its double-walled plastic frame and heavy-duty construction essentially guarantee your dog stays contained and safe, even in the event of a severe collision. Dimensions: 26 x 20 x 23 inches (small) up to 42 x 29.5 x 34.4 inches (large) | Weight: Approximately 50 to 140 pounds | Sizes: 3 (small, medium, large) | Materials: Wood, metal or clear acrylic gate | Foldable: No What you'll love: Looks more like furniture than a dog crate Solid enough to use as a side table Good ventilation keeps the inside airy Keep in mind: Pricier than some other options on our list Not for heavy chewers or anxious dogs If you've spent years reluctantly decorating around a dog crate (or hiding it altogether), Fable's crate is probably the solution you've been looking for. It honestly looks more like an end table or a modern sideboard than a place for your dog to sleep, especially if you go with the clear acrylic gate option. (Just keep in mind that it's priced like a piece of furniture as well.) The crate is super solid and can hold up to 300 pounds on top, so you can use it as a real piece of furniture without worrying about it collapsing. There's plenty of airflow through the small openings and it's designed to make your dog feel cozy and protected, not confined. (Though, realistically, if you add a comfy bed or a few blankets inside, you might sacrifice some of the ultra-minimal look you're paying for.) I wouldn't recommend this crate if your dog has a history of chewing or scratching, or if they're prone to anxiety, since the wood and acrylic can scratch or show wear pretty quickly. It's also heavy, and you'll definitely need two people to put together the larger sizes. But if your dog is calm, already crate-trained and you really care about how their crate looks in your space, this is the nicest one you'll find. The Forbes Vetted team includes dedicated pet parents who regularly research, test and recommend essential pet products, from the best dog harnesses to the best cooling dog beds. For this guide to the best dog crates, we leaned on firsthand experience with many of these models, comprehensive research and valuable insights from trusted veterinary and training professionals. This story was written by Forbes Vetted home and kitchen editor Kelly O'Sullivan, a lifelong dog owner who personally tested several crates featured here—including the Midwest Homes crate that her own dogs have used for more than 20 years, and the EliteField portable crate she relies on for overnight trips. This story was edited by deputy home and kitchen editor Rebekah Lowin, who oversees all coverage of pet gear and has a deep understanding of how these products fit into our homes. We consulted veterinary and training experts including Nicole Ellis, a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA), author, and former Celebrity Trainer on Amazon Prime's The Pack ; Lindsey Wolko, founder of the Center for Pet Safety; Crystal Litzenberger, CVT; and Rochelle Guardardo, animal training manager at Pasadena Humane. These experts provided detailed guidance on safety, crate sizing, materials, and suitability for various breeds and temperaments. ; Lindsey Wolko, founder of the Center for Pet Safety; Crystal Litzenberger, CVT; and Rochelle Guardardo, animal training manager at Pasadena Humane. These experts provided detailed guidance on safety, crate sizing, materials, and suitability for various breeds and temperaments. We regularly update this guide to ensure our recommendations remain current, accurate and relevant. This version was last reviewed and published in July 2025. To find the best dog crates, we combined firsthand experience, extensive product research and direct input from veterinary and training professionals to ensure every recommendation meets high standards for safety and durability. We prioritized crates personally tested and recommended by Forbes Vetted editors and their own dogs, focusing on long-term durability, ease of use and comfort. We interviewed veterinarians, professional dog trainers and pet safety experts to pinpoint exactly which features, such as secure latch mechanisms, reinforced construction, proper ventilation and materials, are most critical for various dog needs. We thoroughly assessed each crate's size range, build quality, portability, ease of cleaning and overall functionality, highlighting crates suited to a variety of breeds, lifestyles and households. We carefully reviewed feedback from real pet owners; every recommended crate on this list consistently receives strong reviews and maintains at least a 4-star average rating. The right crate depends heavily on your dog's size, personality and needs. To ensure you're investing in one that suits your pet (and your home), here are the most important factors experts recommend prioritizing. Safety Features Safety should always come first when choosing a dog crate, especially since your dog will likely spend time inside unsupervised. Ellis emphasizes looking closely at latch design. 'Secure latches are crucial, especially if your dog is prone to escaping,' she says. Good crates, like our top pick from Midwest Homes for Pets, use latches that are secure enough to keep your dog contained, but still simple for you to open quickly in an emergency. It's also important to ensure crates have no sharp edges, pinch points or loose wires that could hurt your dog. Wolko, founder of the Center for Pet Safety, specifically advises examining wire crates for sturdy joints, rounded edges and secure clips rather than sharp corners or gaps where paws or jaws can get caught. Some crates, like the Diggs Revol Dog Crate, even include small but important safety features such as diamond-shaped steel mesh and rounded corners. Plastic crates have their own safety considerations. Wolko cautions against cheaper plastic crates because they're more likely to fracture or crack, creating sharp pieces that pose serious risks for dogs and their owners. Instead, she recommends crates with reinforced materials, metal hardware and strong structural integrity. And if you're traveling by car, Wolko strongly recommends choosing crates specifically tested for crash safety, like the Gunner G1 Kennel, which is designed to withstand severe impacts and keep your dog secure even in an accident. Size And Adjustability Choosing the correct size crate is crucial—not only for your dog's comfort but for their safety, too. "Dogs should be able to stand up comfortably, turn around without hunching and lie down while fully stretching their limbs," says Rochelle Guardardo, animal training manager at Pasadena Humane. Puppies grow fast, so Guardardo recommends sizing up earlier than you might expect, or opting for an adjustable crate with a divider panel, like our top overall pick from MidWest. For adult dogs, measure from their nose to the base of their tail, adding about six inches to find the ideal crate length. Material And Durability Not all crate materials are ideal for every dog, so consider your pup's personality and habits. According to veterinary technician Crystal Litzenberger, CVT, wire crates like the MidWest or Diggs Revol provide excellent ventilation, which makes them ideal for larger or fluffier dogs prone to overheating. More enclosed crates might help calm anxious dogs, she says, because they offer less stimulation and more privacy. If your dog suffers from severe anxiety or has a history of escaping crates, consider investing in a heavy-duty, reinforced option like our recommended Impact High Anxiety crate. And while soft-sided crates, such as the EliteField, are lightweight and easy to transport, they're only a good option for dogs already comfortable being crated who won't try to chew or claw their way out.
CBC
6 days ago
- CBC
Toronto man calls for better enforcement of off-leash dogs after crash sends him to hospital
Social Sharing What started as a normal summer stroll in Toronto's Christie Pits Park quickly went south for Chris Livett after a large off-leash dog crashed head first into his ankle. Levitt said the crash in early July resulted in a complex ankle fracture requiring surgery to install metal screws and plates. He's now calling on the city to increase enforcement of off-leash dogs in undesignated public spaces. "Dogs off leash are dangerous, as I've unfortunately had to learn myself. And I hope that people take that more seriously," said Livett, who works as a freelance transportation planner. With a cast on his leg and a broken collarbone after a tumble on his new crutches, Livett said he won't be able to work for at least six weeks. He hopes that by sharing his story he'll be able to find the owner for compensation, in addition to advocating for more enforcement of off-leash dogs. "This is going to have a big financial impact on me," he said. "It might just seem fun and innocent to go running around the park without your pets on leash, but these things have a real impact on people." In 2024, there were 2,675 complaints to the city and 47 charges by bylaw enforcement teams for dog off-leash offences in Toronto parks, according to a city council report. Under the city's municipal code, dogs are not allowed to run loose except within a designated off-leash area. 'It really jeopardizes the safety of everyone' Moments before the crash, Livett said an unidentified man on a skateboard and three unleashed dogs – including the one that crashed into him – came barrelling down a hill, weaving through pedestrians. "That definitely wasn't the right place or time for that," he said. "I'm someone who tends to not be judgmental about these things, it seems like they're having a lot of fun. But it was a crowded park, TOPS [Toronto Outdoor Picture Show] was on." He said he didn't get a good look at the owner or the other dogs, but described the one that crashed into him as a cream-coloured Pit Bull or Staffordshire Bull Terrier. The owner of the dog didn't stick around after the crash or share any contact information, Livett said. He said he didn't file a report with the police because of the lack of information he has on the owner. Owners need to understand where it's appropriate to let dogs run free, said Isaac Meyer Odell, head of production for the Toronto Outdoor Picture Show, which does screenings in Christie Pits Park. "It really jeopardizes the safety of everyone around and also parks are multi-user spaces and we need to respect that," he said. Every week there are likely thousands of dogs that are off-leash in Toronto parks, said Tracy Loconte, founder of Paws for Parks, a community organization that was founded in response to off-leash bylaw violations in High Park. She said the city needs to address the issue by increasing bylaw enforcement and granting bylaw officers special constable status so dog owners understand the severity of the offence and tickets. "It's sometimes difficult for bylaw officers to be able to fulfill the mandate of giving out tickets when people sometimes will just walk away," she said. Loconte recommends people report any off-leash dogs in an undesignated area to the city's 311 line. "Put that report in. That data is looked at by the city and they will allocate resources accordingly," she said. WATCH | City council debated in 2024 about a potential dangerous dogs registry: Toronto considers dangerous dog registry 1 year ago Toronto city council is debating new measures as it grapples with a growing number of dog attacks. One of the proposals is a public registry of dogs that have mauled humans or other animals. The city monitors the volume of complaints and deploys enforcement officers as needed, said Shane Gerard, a spokesperson for the City of Toronto. "As with any bylaw, the City first attempts to educate people about the rules and why they are important for public safety," he said in an emailed statement. "In some cases the issue may be resolved through education. In other cases, further enforcement action may be required." Gerard said owners can be fined $500, plus administrative surcharges, for an off-leash dog outside a designated area.
BBC News
21-07-2025
- Health
- BBC News
TV's Chris Packham has grass seed warning for dog owners
The broadcaster and naturalist Chris Packham has warned people to be aware of the risk grass seeds pose to dogs after one of his pets had to be rushed to the Packham, who lives in the New Forest, said his poodle Nancy needed treatment on two separate occasions after she developed weeping eyes and symptoms similar to conjunctivitis."Her eye was inflamed and clearly sore," he said. "She was becoming increasingly distressed."It turned out that both times she had a grass seed stuck behind her eyelid, which was causing irritation and pain. But he said on both occasions a vet was able to remove it without any long term now wears specialist doggie goggles when she goes out in the long grass to prevent it from happening again. Mirka Palenikova is a specialist in Ophthalmology at Seadown Vets in Hythe, and treated said: "I could see there was quite a lot of discharge coming out from the eye and she was in pain so we had to apply topical anaesthetic into her eye to be able to examine her." Ms Palenikova said it was important for owners to check their dogs for signs of conjunctivitis and grass seeds in their eyes, paws, ears and coat after every walk. She said if left untreated grass seeds can lead to blindness, and in some cases needed a test like a CT or MRI scan to find it. And as more people try to encourage biodiversity by leaving gardens and fields to grow, rather than always cutting grass, it is a problem that she is seeing more frequently."We are seeing maybe a case or two weekly. With the weather warming as well we see more cases, and I even saw a cat recently with grass seed in her eye which was unusual," she said."I would advise not to walk dogs in areas where there are obvious grass seeds or meadows with long grass." To encourage biodiversity Mr Packham only cuts the grass in his garden once a year, but said he had never had this problem before. "I suppose it's an artefact of the fact that we've generated an environment here where there's an awful lot of seed and they do like playing, running through the garden," he is now vigilant about checking for grass seeds, and Nancy now wears special goggles to protect her eyes when walking in long grass. "When I heard about them, I was very sceptical and thought this is ridiculous," he said."Although I thought it was an absurd idea, ultimately I'd rather have a dog with two perfectly functional eyes than a dog that had lost one of them because of my prejudice." You can follow BBC Hampshire & Isle of Wight on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.
Yahoo
17-06-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
Is it illegal to leave your dog in a hot car? UK law explained as temperatures soar
Parts of the UK are expected to be hotter than southern Europe on Sunday, with forecasters predicting temperatures to go into the 30s this weekend. By the weekend, most places will reach temperatures above the heatwave threshold – which varies depending on where you are in the country. In London – where the threshold is 28C – temperatures could peak at 29C on Thursday and 31C on Friday, before hitting 32C on Saturday. The hot weather will then spread further north, with Manchester and Newcastle enjoying temperatures into the late 20s by the weekend, the Met Office says. Several places are expected to exceed 30C on Saturday, the Met Office says, in what will be the hottest temperatures of the year so far. And while many people will be looking forward to basking in the sunshine, there are some potential dangers to be wary of in such hot weather. The Dogs Trust charity has issued a warning that there is 'no safe amount of time to leave dogs in hot cars', warning that "even a few minutes could prove fatal". It's a risk that, sadly, too many people take with their pets, but why is it so dangerous, and where does the law stand on it? Yahoo News explains... Unlike humans, dogs struggle to cool themselves down effectively, said Charlie Dobson, senior vet at Dogs Trust. This, he said, means "they're much more vulnerable in high temperatures, especially during exercise or when left in a vehicle". As dogs cannot regulate their body heat in the same way humans can, they can overheat at all temperatures, the Dogs Trust said, and if they cannot sufficiently cool down by panting, they may suffer a potentially fatal heatstroke. Heatstroke can affect any type of dog, but certain breeds and types of dogs are at increased risk, the charity added. These include brachycephalic or flat-faced breeds such as English Bulldogs, Pugs and French Bulldogs, as well as older dogs, overweight dogs and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Symptoms of heatstroke in dogs include panting heavily, drooling excessively, appearing lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated, vomiting or diarrhoea and collapsing. If your dog has collapsed or is struggling to breathe, call your nearest vet immediately. Exercising your dog in hot weather also puts them at risk, the Dogs Trust said, adding that even short walks in the heat should be avoided. 'The good news is that these risks are avoidable," Dobson said. "Walking your dog during the cooler times of day, keeping their activity levels lower, ensuring they have a shady spot to rest, and providing constant access to fresh water can all help keep them safe. 'And above all, never leave your dog alone in a hot car — not even for a few minutes. Even with the windows cracked open, it simply isn't safe to leave a dog in the car at any time in this heat." While it is not specifically illegal to leave a dog in a hot car, owners are legally responsible for their pet's health and welfare, according to the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA) charity. If a dog became ill or died due to being left in a hot car, the owner could be charged with the offence of animal cruelty under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. This could lead to a prison sentence of up to 12 months, or a fine of up to £20,000. The RSPCA said bystanders should assess the dog's condition, and dial 999 at once if they show any signs of heatstroke. "Don't be afraid to dial 999," the charity said, warning that in an emergency, the RSPCA may not be able to get there quickly enough, and that it doesn't have the same powers of entry that police have. Within minutes, a dog could die in a hot car ⚠️ Please keep your pooches safe and never leave them in a warm car 🚗[Image description: An infographic warning that dogs die in hot cars. It includes advice to call 999 immediately if you see a dog in distress in a hot car.] — Dogs Trust 💛🐶 (@DogsTrust) June 26, 2024 "If the dog's condition is critical, and the police haven't arrived yet, your instinct will be to break into the car to free them. "But please be aware that this could be classed as criminal damage. You may need to defend your actions in court, so please be sure you're doing the right thing. "Legally, you can commit damage if you believe the car owner would consent to it if they knew the dog was in danger." If you are sure that you need to free the dog by force, the RSPCA advises telling the police what you intend to do and why. Take photos and videos of the dog and take names and telephone numbers of any witnesses, the charity added. The Dogs Trust has issued some words of advice on how to keep your dog safe during hot spells: Avoid walking or doing activities either indoors or outdoors with your dog at the hottest times of the day. Early morning or later in the evening is often best. Always take plenty of water with you when out with your dog and make sure they have access to fresh water at home at all times. Tarmac can get very hot in the sun – check it with your hand before letting your dog walk on it so they don't burn their paws. If you cannot avoid taking your dog out in the car on a hot day, even if travelling a short distance, avoid travelling during the hottest times of the day. Use a cooling mat or wrap an ice pack or frozen water bottle in a tea towel for your pet to lie on. Use cold treats from the fridge for added moisture or make an ice lolly from pet-friendly ingredients. Don't let your pet get sunburnt - use pet-safe sun cream. Read more How long will UK's heatwave last and how hot will it get? (The Independent) Ten top tips for sleeping well during a heatwave (The London Standard) Recycle glass bottles to avoid starting blaze, fire chiefs warn (The Telegraph)
RNZ News
16-06-2025
- General
- RNZ News
Kids learn dog safety lessons, as roaming attacks continue
Director of Bark NZ Heather Summers says the most important lesson for kids was not to panic. Photo: Supplied A pre-school in south Auckland is teaching its tamariki how to be safe around dogs as roaming pets continue to attack and harass families. Recent run-ins with dogs have left locals shaken and some children afraid to go to school. Youngsters at the Barnados Early Learning Centre in Clendon went hands-on with a group of friendly pups this week to build their confidence and learn animal safety skills. Heather Summers is the director of Bark NZ, an Auckland-based charity running dog safety courses at schools throughout the upper North Island. She said the most important lesson for kids was not to panic if they encountered a dog. "Ultimately what we're trying to do is to help children stand still if they come across a loose dog because as soon as we squeal or flap or run even a well-trained happy dog is likely to chase because that's a natural instinct for them," she said. She taught children to "stand tall like a tree." "In dog body language that's basically showing a dog that we're not interested in you," Summers explained. "A dog might come and sniff but will ultimately walk away. Dogs can't chase things that don't move so if we can teach our children to remain still it helps the adults to have control of the situation." Older kids could be taught more advanced skills to help them assess whether a dog was dangerous or friendly. "As they start progressing through the ages we start teaching them how dogs communicate, how different environments can play a different role in how dogs might be feeling and therefore when to interact and when to not interact with a dog," she said. Barnardos Clendon's centre manager Lou Guinares says parents would often report dog sightings just outside the pre-school. Photo: Supplied Barnardos Clendon's centre manager Lou Guinares said he wanted the children to be well-equipped when they were out in south Auckland. "In our community there is a lot of loose dogs in the area. We thought it would be a good opportunity for them to have that learning experience with Bark NZ," he said. "[Learning about] approaching the dog gently, making sure to ask the owner before petting a dog because some children they get quite excited whenever they see a dog." He said parents would often report dog sightings just outside the pre-school. "In our car park or just around our area everyone has noticed that there has been a lot of stray dogs or just dogs off the leash, and so whenever there's a dog in the car park they would notify us as well so that we can notify the other whanau." Manurewa Local Board chair Matt Winiata said a particularly violent dog attack in November last year left many children so frightened they refused to go to school. "A mother of five was attacked by a dog, her brain was exposed essentially and that happened 50 metres from Manurewa South School," he said. "The primary school for the remainder of the year was having issues with truancy because kids just did not want to go to school." Manurewa-Papakura Ward councillor Daniel Newman said the roaming dog issue was getting worse, but animal management was rising to the challenge. "There are more challenges than ever before, [but] what is improving is council's response to that because we are putting more officers on the beat," he said. "We are responding to complaints. We will actually euthanise more dogs this year than ever before which is unfortunate but necessary." Matt Winiata said his local board was helping to fund four additional rangers and two vehicles to help patrol the community. He was hopeful that would improve the safety and effectiveness of animal management in Manurewa. Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.
