Leaving dogs in hot cars is extremely dangerous and even a few minutes can prove fatal. According to the RSPCA, when it’s just 22 degrees Celsius outside, the car could reach an unbearable 47 degrees within an hour.
That’s why Roadchef on International Dog Day (26 August) is highlighting its dog-friendly motorway service areas, ensuring there’s never a reason to leave your dog in the car.
Roadchef provides facilities to ensure that dogs can remain safely with their owners throughout a motorway stop, removing any need for them to be left in parked vehicles. At all Roadchef locations, dogs are allowed inside the building to allow owners access to toilet facilities and fresh water stations for dogs available at all locations. Many service areas feature extensive outdoor spaces for exercising dogs, and designated walking zones at key sites offer secure locations for more extensive activity.
Roadchef provide dedicated dog walking areas at the following locations:
Strensham North (M5)
Norton Canes (M6 Toll)
Sedgemoor (M5)
Strensham South (M5)
Taunton Deane North (M5)
Taunton Deane South (M5)
Magor (M4)
Dan Sutton, operations excellence director at Roadchef commented: “As temperatures climb, the inside of a vehicle can become dangerously hot in just minutes, even with the windows down. That’s why we’re committed to making our service areas as welcoming for dogs as they are for their owners. With dog-friendly facilities at all 31 of our motorway locations, we make it easy for drivers to take a safe, comfortable break with their pets this August Bank Holiday. From shaded outdoor areas to fresh water stations, we’re helping travellers keep tails wagging all summer long.”
Roadchef’s practical tips for Travelling with Dogs in the Summer Heat
Plan regular, pet-friendly stops
Dogs need to stretch, hydrate and cool down just like we do. Roadchef offers dog-friendly outdoor spaces at all locations, so plan your journey with safe rest breaks in mind.Never leave dogs in parked vehicles
Even on mild days, car interiors can reach life-threatening temperatures within minutes. Always take your dog out of the vehicle during stops — there’s no need to leave them behind with so many dog-friendly facilities available.Keep dogs hydrated
Bring a portable water bowl and offer fresh water regularly. All Roadchef locations have access to drinking water to help keep pets cool and healthy.Look out for signs of heat stress
Heavy panting, drooling, lethargy, and uncoordinated movements can all indicate heatstroke in dogs. If you notice these signs, move your pet into shade immediately and seek veterinary advice.Use shaded areas to rest
At Roadchef service areas, shaded seating and grassy spaces make it easy for dogs to relax and cool down before you continue your journey.
With fully dog-friendly facilities, Roadchef is making summer travel safer and more enjoyable for both people and their pets, ensuring there’s no reason to leave a dog in a car, ever.
