Organisers of dog shows were criticized for allowing their event to go ahead despite the heat and warnings.
The heat hit 29C amid health warnings issued by the RSPCA and an amber weather warning for extreme heat in Dorset announced by the Met Office – but Bournemouth Championship Dog Show kicked off anyway.
While other shows in the Dorset area cancelled the dog elements of their events, the Bournemouth Canine Association decided to proceed with their annual event.
Owners and pets had to take shelter in marquees during the event without air conditioning.
Before the show, concerned locals and experts expressed concern about the dogs’ health while they were competing in a heatwave.
The backlash led to members of the general public using social media to label those responsible selfish, stupid, and shameful for pushing ahead.
Temperatures hit 29C amid health warnings issued by the RSPCA and an amber weather warning for extreme heat in Dorset announced by the Met Office – but Bournemouth Championship Dog Show kicked off anyway
Before the show, concerned locals and experts expressed concern about the dogs’ health (pictured not with one of the competitors).
On Thursday, the organisers posted on Facebook: ‘We are all ready to welcome you tomorrow to our first Open Show & the Championship Show on Saturday. It is not cancelled!!
‘We have a lovely cooling breeze blowing & plenty of shaded areas. You can also take your dog to the cool waters for a swim (or you, if you prefer !).’).
Pet owners furious at their pets took to the comments section and started blasting This event is for those who are’stupid, selfish and irresponsible.
One commented: ‘There is now an Amber Warning by Met Office Extreme Heat 36°F. Hopefully, it won’t be as hot. I lost my Welsh KC Championship Show champion dog from heat exhaustion years ago. It is not something I would do again.
One other said, “Dogs can still get heatstroke even when they are in the shade. If the shade is provided by marquees, there won’t be any breeze.”
You can take your dog to show classes, it is your decision. But putting your dog at danger because of your vanity or ego for winning the class is pure stupidity.
The third was added: “Absolutely shocked that Bournemouth Dog Show continues in this heat.”
“I wish there was animal welfare, and that vets were available to handle any potential catastrophes. Please don’t get mad at me. These tents look like ovens regardless of how many flaps you have open.
Pet owners and pets had to hide under the marquees at the event without air conditioning.
The dog show was under intense criticism. They tried to defend their position by explaining that the show wasn’t on the tarmac and they had cool baths available for the animals who attended the event.
Meanwhile, Ellingham Show stated earlier in the week that they asked people to not bring dogs yesterday to their event and removed all dog shows following RSPCA advice.
Christchurch Carnival cancelled its Sunday dog show due to the same concerns.
Yesterday’s heat caused another cancellation of the prestigious Fyfield Village and Church fete dog show near Andover (Hants), event.
The village fete is known for this event, and dog owners often bring their pet dogs.
After the forecasted temperature of 34C, the decision was made ‘for safety and welfare of our furry friends’. The rest of the festivities went on as normal.
It was intended that the contest would last between 30 and 40 minutes. However, this competition should only have occurred when the sun was shining brightest.
Yesterday, Phil Boyes was one of the festival organizers. He said that he had to make the dogs show their stuff. This is due to the professional advice and heat we received from a veterinarian.
Under intense fire, the organisers of the Bournemouth Championship Dog Show attempted to justify its position, stressing ‘the show is not on tarmac’ and that they have facilities such as cool baths on site for animals attending the event.
Meanwhile, dog owners planning to attend were quick to defend the decision and commented in defence of the show’s organisers.
One person commented that shows go on in Spain, Portugal and Brazil as well as Africa. Like many others, everyone has their own dog.
Don’t go if you don’t wish to! Do not criticize people who go or the committee behind these shows. They do this for free.
Another said, “I will make sure my little girl is cool, with a coolcoat, coolmat, and frozen water bottles in the crate. I’ll also ensure she has lots of water.”
“Most show owners have more common sense than your average pet owner, so don’t accuse us of doing things that our dogs love.
Another thing: “It is not wrong to think so. It is important that everyone has the common sense and takes care of their pets, just like I did at the dog shows.
“Worry about pet owners walking dogs along pavements with their dogs, concern about hot dogs in hot homes – this is not how people are used to caring for their pets !!!!!’
Esme Wheeler of the RSPCA’s dog welfare team stated that she was concerned about dog shows occurring during the heatwave.
“The heat has turned from glorious to severe, and it’s vital that pet owners understand the consequences.
“This means you will be able to limit your walking and take only the essential car rides.
“We still get reports about dogs left in cars and dogs being taken to outdoor festivals and shows, as well as to the beach.
Do not drag your panting pet along the sidewalk or goofing around at shows. You should leave your dog at home, where they will be protected.
It could save your life. Knowing how to avoid heatstroke is vital. Also, knowing how to identify signs and symptoms of heatstroke in animals can be crucial.