Campaign Warns UK Open Water Can Be Dangerous for Dogs and Owners
Dogs Trust has launched a campaign urging owners to be cautious around lakes, canals, rivers and the sea, as data shows a rise in dog-related incidents. The initiative emphasizes that even confident swimmers can struggle.
The Earlswood Lakes near Solihull in the West Midlands look like an ideal spot for dogs to cool off, but animal charity Dogs Trust is using the picturesque setting to highlight hidden dangers. Its new campaign, built around the slogan "If in doubt, keep your dog out," aims to cut injuries and deaths involving dogs and their owners in open water.
Figures from the Royal National Lifeboat Institution show 308 dog-related incidents in open water in the UK between 2021 and 2025, nearly all on the coast, with about a third occurring from June to September. The National Water Safety Forum recorded 10 accidental drownings in England linked to animal rescue and 12 linked to dog walking during 2019–2025. Canal & River Trust data show dog-related incidents reached a five-year high in 2025, up 39% from the previous year.
Dogs Trust’s rehoming manager Emma-Jane Thomas said not all dogs are natural swimmers and even strong ones can get into trouble. She warned about steep banks, hidden underwater debris, and blue-green algae, which can be toxic. The Environment Agency notes that not all algae blooms are harmful, but it is impossible to tell visually, so people should assume they are dangerous. Veterinary expert Emily Mills added that dogs can become ill after drinking contaminated water or grooming themselves after a swim, with symptoms appearing in as little as 15 minutes and progressing rapidly.
Thomas cautioned against owners jumping in to rescue a struggling dog, as that could create two emergencies. She advised calling the dog to a safe exit point or contacting emergency services. An online survey of 2,000 UK dog owners conducted in June found that 33% did not believe blue-green algae posed a serious threat, 19% were unaware that calm-looking water can be risky, and 80% said they would enter the water to rescue their dog. A local resident walking her rescue border collie Billy, Sally, said she worries about the lack of signage around the lakes.
