The summer months can be uncomfortable, or even dangerous, for people and for pets. When you factor in the heat and humidity typical of summer weather, you’ll need to be attentive to your dog to ensure they’re staying cool and healthy. We've compiled a list of things you can do to help your furry friends beat the heat!
Limit Exercise on Hot Days
You should always keep a close eye on your dog when they’re exercising or running around. On hot days, it’s even more important as they could easily overheat. Adjust the length of their time spent playing on particularly hot days or get them outside for some playtime in the early morning or late evening when the temperatures are typically cooler. If you’re outside on a hot day, try to keep them off the asphalt as it can burn their paws; grass is a much safer surface. Finally, carry water with you at all times to make sure they stay hydrated.
Provide Shade & Water
If your pet is outside and that summer sun is blazing, make sure you provide them with access to plenty of shade and water. Shaded areas can be significantly cooler, and water will ensure they stay hydrated. Still, you should limit their time outdoors when temps are extreme.
Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car
This is a HUGE no-no. Not even for one minute. Temps can rise rapidly in a car on hot days. According to the Humane Society, even with windows slightly opened, temperatures inside a vehicle can reach 102 degrees within 10 minutes on an 85-degree day. And the temperature will keep rising. After 30 minutes the inside of the car could reach 120 degrees. Exposure to extreme temperatures can cause organ damage and/or failure in your pet or even death.
Cool Your Pets Down from the Inside
Embrace the magical power of a “pupsicle!” Pupsicles are homemade popsicles with dog-friendly ingredients. Just like a popsicle cools you down on a hot day, it can do the same for your dog. Check out these easy and fun recipes for pupsicles from The Dog Bakery!
There are also options like a cooling body wrap, vest, or mat. Typically, you soak each of those products in cool water, and they can provide a cooling effect for up to three days.
Another great option, if your dog isn’t afraid of water or isn’t stressed out by bath time, is to take them swimming, give them a cool bath, or play with the hose or sprinkler!
Fans Just Won’t Cut It
While turning on a fan might cool you down sufficiently, it probably won’t be enough to cool down man’s best friend. Dogs sweat primarily through their paws and rely on panting to help cool their bodies down. So, fans just aren’t as effective for dogs. A climate-controlled space is more ideal.
Keep an Eye Out for Heatstroke
The Humane Society outlines these signs of heatstroke in dogs: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, seizure, and unconsciousness.
Risk factors for heatstroke in dogs include: age (very old or very young), being overweight, not being used to long exercise, heart or respiratory disease, and having a short muzzle.
If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cool location, give them small sips of cold water, cover them with ice packs or a cool towel, and take them to the vet right away.
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