Planning on getting out and about with your four-legged friend? Well, you’ve been warned.

Several instances could put pets at risk during long walks, garden gatherings and days out near lakes or rivers.

As warmer weather encourages more time outdoors, Darren Beale, CEO of Years, the fresh dog food brand, says the long weekend can create a “perfect storm” for dogs.

“Bank holidays usually mean longer walks, busier parks, BBQs, garden time and trips to lakes or beaches,” says Darren.

“That is great for dogs, but it also increases the chance of them eating, drinking or stepping on something they shouldn’t.”

Bank holiday risks dog owners should watch for:

Lakes, ponds and stagnant water

Dogs should not be allowed to drink from stagnant water, ponds, canals or lakes, especially in warmer weather.

Some water can contain bacteria, parasites or blue-green algae, which can be dangerous.

“Always take fresh water with you on walks,” says Darren.

“If your dog is thirsty, they are much more likely to drink from puddles, lakes or standing water before you can stop them.”

Long walks in warmer weather

Owners planning longer bank holiday walks should avoid the hottest part of the day and watch for signs of overheating.

“Dogs do not always know when to stop,” Darren explains.

“Heavy panting, slowing down, drooling or seeming disoriented can all be warning signs.

“Shorter, shaded walks are often safer than pushing for a big route in warm weather.”

BBQ scraps and picnic food

Cooked bones, skewers, onions, corn on the cob, fatty scraps and dropped food can all cause problems for dogs.

“Bank holiday food is one of the easiest risks to overlook,” says Darren.

“Dogs will scavenge if they get the chance, so BBQ areas, picnic blankets and bins need to be kept out of reach.”

Grass seeds and sharp debris

After walks through long grass, fields, or parks, owners should check paws, ears, and coats for grass seeds, thorns, or sharp debris.

“Grass seeds can lodge in paws, ears or skin and sometimes need veterinary treatment,” Darren says.

“A quick check after a walk can prevent a small irritation from becoming a bigger issue.”

Garden chemicals and compost

Compost, mulch, fertilisers and slug pellets can all be dangerous if eaten, particularly during spring when gardens are being refreshed.

“Dogs are drawn to strong smells, so compost and garden products can be tempting,” says Darren.

“Anything used in the garden should be stored securely and kept well away from pets.”

Darren’s bank holiday safety checklist for dog owners

• Take fresh water on every walk
• Avoid letting dogs drink from lakes, ponds or stagnant water
• Walk earlier or later in the day if it is warm
• Keep BBQ food, skewers and bins out of reach
• Check paws, ears and coats after walks
• Store compost, fertilisers and slug pellets securely
• Keep dogs supervised around unfamiliar gardens, lakes and picnic spots

“Most bank holiday risks are avoidable,” Darren adds.

“The key is planning ahead and seeing the day from your dog’s perspective.

“What smells interesting, what looks edible, and what might they run towards before you have time to react?”

What are you doing this weekend? Let us know in the comments

Thames Valley Police said that yesterday evening (Wednesday, April 29) a Land Rover was seized following a brief investigation.

The roads policing unit had received reports that a ‘cloned vehicle’ was travelling along the M40.

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A cloned vehicle is a car, motorcycle, or van that has had its identity stolen and replaced with the registration number of a similar, legally registered vehicle.

A Thames Valley Police spokesperson said: “During the shift, intelligence was received regarding a cloned vehicle believed to be travelling along the motorway, which officers were requested to locate and intercept.

Thames Valley Police seized a Land Rover on the M40 with multiple number plates (Image: TVP)

“Acting swiftly on this information, with targeted searches of the area, we were able to successfully identify the vehicle.

“Working together and utilising tactical options, officers brought the vehicle to a safe and controlled stop, ensuring minimal disruption to other road users.”

Once stopped the force searched the vehicle and discovered multiple number plates with the probe still ongoing.

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The spokesperson added: “Following the stop, a thorough search of the vehicle was conducted. This resulted in the discovery of multiple number plates.

“Enquiries also confirmed that the vehicle was uninsured and the driver had no licence. Further investigation is ongoing around the other number plates located.

“A great example of effective teamwork, coordination, and proactive policing to keep our roads safe.”

The incident occurred on Friday (April 24) as a vehicle was spotted by Thames Valley Police on The Orchard, East Challow.

Officers stopped the car and carried out a Section 23 Misuse of Drugs Act search, discovering drugs, multiple mobile phones, cash and a knife, a spokesperson for the force said.

As a result, a man and a woman, both aged 40, were arrested on suspicion of being concerned in the supply of drugs and possession of a bladed article.

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The seized car. (Image: Thames Valley Police)

Since being taken into custody, the man was charged with driving otherwise in accordance with a licence, no insurance, and possession of a bladed article.

He has since been bailed for the drug offences while the force’s enquiries continue.

The woman was charged with permitting a vehicle to be used without insurance and without the correct licence.

Thames Valley Police shared the details on Wednesday afternoon but the names of the pair have not been disclosed at this stage.

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A spokesperson for the force said: “A message to anyone dealing in Wantage, we’re a proactive and determined team.

“We will stop you, search you, seize what you shouldn’t have, and dig through evidence, including your phones.”

“If you’re involved in crime here, it’s only a matter of time.

“We’ll keep working hard to protect our community, and we’re not slowing down anytime soon.”