Dog owners are being urged to keep their pets safe around frozen lakes and ponds this winter.
Dogs Trust Leeds has issued the warning as cold weather warnings are issued by the Met Office across the UK.
The charity warns that while bodies of water may appear solid, they are rarely strong enough to support the weight of a dog.
Dom Burke, behaviour officer at Dogs Trust, said: "Temperatures have dropped sharply in recent days, and many bodies of water are now frozen.
"While icy ponds and lakes may look inviting for curious dogs, they pose a serious risk to both dogs and their owners.
"If you’re walking near frozen water, it’s safest to keep your dog on a lead.
"If the ice breaks and your dog falls in, do not attempt to rescue them yourself, as this could put your life at risk and result in you needing emergency assistance."
The charity is warning owners never to enter the water if their dog falls through ice.
Cold water shock can be extremely dangerous for people and can lead to panic, involuntary gasping, inhalation of water and even fatal heart attacks, including in young and otherwise healthy individuals.
Entering the water may also put the dog at greater risk.
Instead, owners should try to encourage their dog to swim back to the edge if possible, and in any emergency situation, call 999 immediately.
Frozen lakes aren’t the only winter danger, with the charity also sharing tips to help keep pets safe during the colder months.
Dogs can feel the cold, so short-haired dogs and puppies may need extra warmth, so a well-fitting winter coat can help.
Breeds with thicker coats may benefit from being allowed to grow their fur a little longer in winter.
Snowy weather can confuse dogs and increase the risk of them becoming lost.
Owners are advised to keep pets on a lead in poor visibility and ensure they wear a collar with an ID tag.
Microchip details should be kept up to date.
After walks, dogs’ legs, paws, and stomachs should be wiped clean to remove road grit, salt, and snow, which can cause irritation.
Antifreeze is particularly dangerous as it is highly toxic to dogs but has a sweet taste that may attract them.
The charity also recommends checking leads, collars, and harnesses for signs of wear, particularly on metal clips.
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