New Regulation in Place: Only Dog Owners Allowed to Accompany Gassi for Walks
In Germany, the warm summer months bring about special considerations for dog owners. The primary reason behind these considerations is the risk of heatstroke and paw burns, which can pose serious dangers to our furry friends.
According to the guidelines, dog walks are often restricted during summer to protect dogs from these heat-related dangers. Many German cities advise dog owners to walk their pets early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. This practice is aimed at preventing heatstroke and paw injuries caused by hot asphalt.
This is not an outright legal ban, but rather a common summer pet safety guideline that emphasizes animal welfare in hot weather conditions. However, some regions or parks might have specific times or seasonal rules restricting dog walks during the day in summer to protect wildlife or natural habitats, but this is less common.
Dogs, like humans, are sensitive to high temperatures and direct sunlight. They can succumb to heatstroke more quickly than humans, making it crucial for dog owners to be vigilant during the summer months.
When it comes to the most popular pets in Germany, dogs take the lead. In 2024, around 15.9 million cats and approximately 10.5 million dogs were the most popular pets in the country. The number of recognized dog breeds worldwide, according to the FCI, is approximately 246. Among these, Chihuahuas, Golden Retrievers, Australian Shepherds, and German Shepherds are also popular dog breeds in Germany.
In addition to dogs, small pets such as rabbits, guinea pigs, or hamsters were owned by 4.3 million people in Germany in 2024. The country also boasts approximately 1.1 million garden ponds with ornamental fish and around 2.0 million aquariums.
It's essential to remember that a balanced and species-appropriate diet, tailored to the dog's age, size, and health, is necessary for dogs. Regular veterinary check-ups are also important for dogs to refresh vaccinations and monitor their health.
In conclusion, summer dog walking restrictions in Germany are primarily aimed at ensuring the safety and health of dogs during the hotter months. By following these guidelines, we can help our pets enjoy the summer season just as much as we do.
Other pets, like rabbits, guinea pigs, or hamsters, also need to be protected from the heat during summer. To ensure a balanced lifestyle for home-and-garden pets such as ornamental fish, it's crucial to provide shade and cooler water during hot weather.
