As the spring bank holiday draws near, pet owners are being advised to watch out for common dangers.

Heading out with your canine companion? Then take note.

Various situations can endanger animals during extended walks, outdoor gatherings and visits to lakes or rivers.

With mild conditions prompting increased outdoor activity, Darren Beale, the chief executive of Years, a raw dog food company, warns that the extended weekend may create an ideal set of circumstances for mishaps.

Extended weekends typically involve lengthier strolls, crowded green spaces, barbecues, garden time and excursions to bodies of water, according to Darren.

This is beneficial for dogs, but it also raises the likelihood of them consuming, imbibing or stepping onto something harmful.

Dog owners should be alert to the following hazards during the bank holiday:

Still water, ponds and canals

Canines ought to be prevented from drinking from stagnant pools, ponds, canals or lakes, particularly when temperatures rise.

Certain bodies of water may harbour harmful bacteria, parasites or toxic blue-green algae.

Carrying clean water during walks is essential, advises Darren.

When dogs are dehydrated, they are far more inclined to lap from puddles, lakes or standing water before their owners can intervene.

Extended walks in warm conditions

Those planning lengthier walks over the bank holiday should steer clear of peak afternoon heat and monitor for indicators of heat exhaustion.

Dogs do not always recognise their limits, Darren points out.

Excessive wheezing, lethargy, excessive drooling or appearing confused can all serve as red flags.

Brief walks in shaded areas tend to be safer than attempting longer routes when temperatures climb.

Barbecue remnants and al fresco fare

Cooked bones, kebab sticks, onions, corn cobs, oily leftovers and discarded morsels can all pose issues for dogs.

Holiday fare represents one of the simplest dangers to neglect, according to Darren.

Dogs will forage opportunistically, so barbecue zones, picnic spreads and waste containers require secure positioning out of paws reach.

Grass awns and jagged objects

After traversing long grass, meadows or parks, guardians should inspect paws, ears and fur for embedded grass awns, thorns or pointed debris.

Grass awns can become lodged in paws, ears or skin and occasionally demand professional veterinary intervention, says Darren.

A swift once-over following a stroll can prevent a minor irritation from developing into something more serious.

Garden treatments and decaying matter

Compost, bark chips, plant foods and molluscicide products all pose risks if consumed, particularly during spring when gardens undergo maintenance.

Strong odours attract dogs, making compost and horticultural items potentially enticing, Darren notes.

Anything applied outdoors must be locked away and positioned far from animal access.

Darren’s bank holiday safety guide for dog guardians

Bring clean water on every outing

Prevent dogs from drinking from lakes, ponds or still water

Schedule walks for morning or evening during warm spells

Secure barbecue items, skewers and refuse containers

Inspect paws, ears and coats following walks

Lock away compost, plant foods and slug pellets

Maintain constant oversight when dogs are near unfamiliar gardens, lakes and outdoor dining areas

Most holiday hazards can be circumvented, Darren emphasises.

Success depends on advance preparation and viewing circumstances through your dog’s eyes.

What scents might catch their attention, what appears appetising, and what might they dash toward before you can respond?