Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is PawWeather?
PawWeather is a web application designed to help dog owners determine if current weather conditions are safe and comfortable for walking their pets. It provides a safety score based on weather data and breed-specific characteristics.
How is the safety score calculated?
The score starts at 100 (perfectly safe) and points are deducted based on various factors. Key weather elements include the 'feels like' temperature, humidity (especially at temperature extremes), wind speed (which can amplify cold), and precipitation. These weather-based deductions are then modified by your selected dog's breed characteristics. See the next question for more on breed specifics.
How does my dog's breed affect the safety score?
Your dog's breed plays a significant role. We consider traits like general heat tolerance, cold tolerance, coat type (e.g., short, double, hairless), size, and whether the breed is brachycephalic (flat-faced), as these significantly impact how a dog handles different weather. For example, a hot day will typically result in a lower safety score for a Pug (a brachycephalic breed with lower heat tolerance) than for a Labrador Retriever with good heat tolerance. The algorithm applies specific adjustments based on these breed profiles.
Is the safety score 100% accurate for my dog?
The safety score is a guideline based on general knowledge and data for typical dogs of a breed. Always observe your own dog for any signs of distress or discomfort, as individual dogs can vary in their tolerance to weather conditions due to age, health, acclimatization, and individual sensitivities, even within the same breed. This tool is not a substitute for your own judgment or veterinary advice. Consult your veterinarian for specific health concerns.
What if I'm having trouble with location detection or search?
If you're having location issues:
1. 'Use My Current Location': Ensure you've granted location permissions to your browser for this site. If it fails or is inaccurate, try manually entering your city. Browser or device location services can sometimes be imprecise or temporarily unavailable.
2. Manual Search: If your typed location isn't found, try being more specific (e.g., "Springfield, IL" instead of just "Springfield") and check for typos. The search uses OpenWeatherMap's geocoding, which is comprehensive but might not list every very small locality.
3. Ensure you have a stable internet connection.
Where does the weather data come from?
PawWeather uses real-time weather data provided by the OpenWeatherMap API for the location you specify or your current location if you choose to share it.
Can I use PawWeather for other pets?
Currently, PawWeather's algorithm and breed data are specifically tailored for dogs. While some general weather advice might be applicable to other animals, the detailed scoring and breed considerations are dog-centric.