Not in the fountains: What happens if you bathe your dog in public spaces and why it's not a good idea

Summer is a time of hardship for everyone, both human and non-human animals, especially when thermometers reach record highs. For dogs, the risk of heatstroke increases, especially when they go out for walks during the middle of the day or walk on scorching surfaces like asphalt. In these cases, it's easy to understand why many caregivers seek immediate solutions to cool their animals down. But not everything is acceptable, and there are practices that, in addition to endangering their health or that of their environment, can lead to fines.

One of the most common images of summer is dogs cooling off in public fountains. Although at first glance it may seem like a friendly and effective way to combat the heat, the truth is that it is expressly prohibited in many cities. This isn't simply a matter of aesthetics or decorum, but rather a combination of hygiene, public health, and respect for the urban environment.

What the regulations say and why they apply

Ornamental fountains and ponds are not swimming pools, drinking fountains, or improvised showers; they are intended solely to beautify the urban landscape and do not receive purification treatment, chlorination, or disinfection systems suitable for recreational use. Therefore, entering them, whether by a person, a dog, or any other animal, poses a health risk, as the Albacete Local Police recently emphasized on social media.

The municipal civic ordinance of Albacete, specifically Article 44, expressly prohibits bathing in fountains, ponds, or similar objects. Madrid, for its part, includes a similar clause in its Ordinance Regulating the Ownership and Protection of Animals, which also prohibits animals from directly consuming water from public taps or pipes.

The Albacete Local Police have stepped up surveillance this summer in response to a surge in cases, and not just with verbal warnings. Fines have already been issued for bathing dogs in the city's fountains, and authorities insist that this practice "is not the solution" to the heat problem. In their messages, they directly appeal to civility and mutual respect as the cornerstones of urban coexistence.

Why it's not a good idea, even if you don't get caught

Beyond the financial penalty, there are other compelling reasons to prevent dogs from entering urban fountains. Water can contain bacteria, fungi, bird droppings , and chemical residues that pose a direct risk to the animal's health, as well as to people, especially children, the elderly, or those with compromised immune systems who may come into contact with that water later.

Furthermore, while many dogs enjoy water, not all animals are comfortable in bustling urban environments. The experience can be more stressful than refreshing, especially if the animal isn't well socialized or is forced into it.

On the other hand, and no less important, the repeated use of these spaces as improvised bathing areas degrades the urban environment , requires greater public spending on cleaning, and can generate unnecessary tensions.

Safe and legal alternatives

The good news is that there are much safer, more comfortable, and healthier ways to help dogs cope with the high temperatures. The Albacete Local Police itself has recommended some simple measures on its official channels, including offering fresh water frequently, ensuring shade during walks, and using a hose or bathtub at home, always with lukewarm water and without overwhelming the animal.

It's also essential to adjust your outing times , avoiding the hottest stretches of land and monitoring the condition of the ground to protect your dog's paws. A useful and accessible trick is to test the ground temperature with your own hand : if you can't hold your hand on the asphalt for five seconds without getting burned, neither should your dog.

In many cities, there are also dog parks with pet-friendly fountains and pools, sandboxes, shaded areas, and drinking fountains, allowing them to enjoy the outdoors without risk or conflict.

These types of reminders aren't a whim or a control maneuver, but rather a matter of public health ( One Health ), mutual respect, and, above all, animal welfare. Dogs don't have the ability to manage their temperature like humans do and are especially vulnerable to heat stroke. If they're forced into unsuitable environments, they run a double risk—physical and emotional.