Dog owners appreciate the facilities at InstaVolt charging sites

With the weather heating up, we are keen to provide services to support dog owners with their four-legged friends when they charge at our sites.

Our recently opened flagship Superhub near Winchester was planned and designed with these important passengers in mind. Located just off the A34, the site features a dedicated dog walking area, dog waste bins and an on-site Starbucks serving ‘puppacinos,’ making it an ideal stop for both drivers and their pets.

These facilities are a direct response to dog owner experiences around the UK, as InstaVolt customers frequently praise charging locations that are pet-friendly.

One InstaVolt customer said, “I always charge here on the way down south, great little spot, good dog walking close by to stretch legs,” while others highlighted, “a fenced field so somewhere to let the dog run around for a bit” and “Surrounded by countryside and footpaths. Took the dog for a walk while I charged.”

All of these comments, plus many others that we receive every week, demonstrate the real value pet owners place on thoughtful design and the local area to the charging stations.

The Winchester Superhub, which features 44 ultra-rapid chargers, also includes 24-hour toilet facilities and a children’s play area where younger passengers can release their energy while the car charges.

As EV charging sessions typically last 20 minutes or more, so it is important that EV drivers can plan ahead and prioritise breaks at these sites for their pets.

Charlie Matthias, senior veterinary surgeon at Dogs Trust, says: “For many of us, the arrival of warmer weather is a welcome change, but it’s important to remember that it can bring real dangers for our dogs.

“Even this week’s lovely spring sunshine can cause serious issues – especially for flat-faced breeds or dogs with underlying health conditions. All drivers should take note that there is no safe amount of time to leave a dog alone in a car – even a few minutes could prove to be fatal.

“Drivers of electric vehicles need to be mindful that this obviously also applies when they’re charging their car. Why not treat the charge time as an opportunity to get your dog out of the car for a drink of water and a toilet break?”

Top tips:

• Never leave dogs unattended in a vehicle, even during charging stops
• Where possible, choose charging locations where you can give your dog a break and fresh air
• Bring water for your pet
• Plan journeys with regular breaks to allow pets to stretch, hydrate, and stay cool