Keep Your Dog Happy and Safe in Hot Summer Weather!
It’s finally here! SUMMER! After such a cool, rainy spring, today’s hot temps remind us that we need to keep our besties cool and healthy in the summer heat. Here are some tips to help!
Some dogs are more sensitive to heat!
Think about dogs that were bred for colder climates and have thick coats, or dogs prone to breathing issues like pugs - they will have more trouble in the heat than those bred in warmer climates such as chihuahuas.
Much like humans, age and heath issues can be contributing factors to heat sensitivity. Puppies and elderly dogs, overweight or obese dogs, and pups with diabetes or heart issues will also have more trouble.
How to keep your dog cool:
To regulate their body temperature, dogs pant instead of sweating like humans do, and keeping them cool in extreme temps can be challenging.
Here are some tips for keeping a hot dog cool:
Set up a kiddie pool or sprinkler in your yard - like when you were a kid! In fact, who says you can’t enjoy it with them?
If there is no shade in your yard, create a shady spot with a tarp or shade sail.
Have an insulated bottle of cold water and a collapsible dish with you if you absolutely must go for walkies.
Never walk your dog on hot pavement - and avoid walkies during high noon if possible. The hottest part of the day is usually between 11am and 2pm.
If you’re prepping for a hike or long walk, check out Kool Skinz made right here in Colorado!
Get an elevated pet bed - an army cot for your pup!
If you think your dog is not drinking enough water, offer them frozen treats or add ice, low sodium chicken broth, or fruit to their water to encourage drinking.
Watch for signs of heat stroke and dehydration
Signs of a heat stroke include:
Rapid panting and breathing.
Slowed movements or fatigue.
Muscle tremors.
Thick saliva, and increased drooling.
Staggering.
A temperature of 103°F or above (normal is 101.5°F). (No fun, but important: How to Take your Dog’s Temperature.)
If you notice your dog is showing signs of a heat stroke, get them into an air conditioned area as soon as possible and contact your veterinarian in case your dog needs IV fluids.
First aid for heat stroke involves cooling off your dog, which can be done by wrapping them in cold, wet towels, or using ice packs wrapped in towels. You do not want to cool them too rapidly if they are experiencing heat stroke, it could send them into shock. Provide cool water and check your dog’s temperature often. You can stop the cooling treatment when your dogs temperature dips below 103°F.
Many of the symptoms of dehydration are pretty vague. For instance, if your dog is dehydrated, they're likely to withdraw and be lethargic, or seem miserable. More specific signs of dehydration include:
Lethargy or slow movements.
An unusually dry mouth - their gums seem dry or tacky.
Their eyes may appear “sunken in”
No appetite, vomiting.
Their skin does not snap back quickly when gently pinched together at the top of the neck - you’ve seen the vet do the “skin tent” test, right?
First aid for dehydration: Call your vet. Dehydration can happen quickly, so it's best to get your furry family member checked over by a vet if you see any signs or symptoms.
Keep that coat!
Put the clippers down! It may be tempting to trim your pet’s fur when summer comes - we humans always feel lighter and cooler after a good buzz cut - but you could be removing an insulating layer which keeps your pet cool and protects them from the sun. Consult your vet or professional groomer before chopping it all off. Groomers can help thin the undercoat a bit if their winter fur isn’t shedding enough, but it’s best to leave that to the pros!
Professional Dog Photographer. Click to read more here…
Now get out there and enjoy the summer FINALLY!