This will be the first in a series of posts offering tips for keeping your dog safe in the summer – the most common hazards and what you can do to prevent them.
Today we will discuss avoiding heatstroke and dehydration.
Today we will discuss avoiding heatstroke and dehydration.
Hopefully we all know by now that pets should never be left in a car on hot days, even for very brief periods of time. The temperature inside of a car can rise to over 100 degrees in a matter of only a few minutes. This can very quickly cause dehydration, brain damage or even death. If you must run errands in the heat, it is best to leave your dog at home.
Short faced (brachycephalic) dogs such as bulldogs, pugs and boxers have an especially difficult time breathing in hot weather because they do not pant as effectively as dogs with longer snouts. When the heat and humidity is especially high, it is best to keep these dogs indoors, preferably where there is air conditioning.
Short faced (brachycephalic) dogs such as bulldogs, pugs and boxers have an especially difficult time breathing in hot weather because they do not pant as effectively as dogs with longer snouts. When the heat and humidity is especially high, it is best to keep these dogs indoors, preferably where there is air conditioning.
Take your dog for walks early in the mornings or later in the evenings when temperatures tend to be more moderate. Limit exercise during the hottest parts of the day. If you are outside with your dog, make sure there is shade and plenty of fresh, cool water. Never leave your dog alone outside in the heat and avoid dog houses as they can trap heat. You may want to fill a children’s wading pool with water and let your dog cool off, if this is something he seems to enjoy.
Other tips for keeping your dog cool and comfortable include turning on a fan indoors, adding a few ice cubes to his water dish or offering frozen treats. There is no need to purchase expensive dog ice cream. You can easily make your own. One simple recipe I have used consists of blending banana, peanut butter and plain yogurt, portioning in muffin tins lined with baking cups and freezing them. I have never had a dog refuse one of these yet!
Surprisingly, it is not a good idea to completely shave your dog in the summer. Trimming and brushing is a much more effective (and safer) way to keep your dog cool.
Surprisingly, it is not a good idea to completely shave your dog in the summer. Trimming and brushing is a much more effective (and safer) way to keep your dog cool.
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Heatstroke is always a danger in the summer months. Know the signs and know what to do if you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke. Signs include excessive drooling, heavy panting and rapid breathing. Signs of advanced heatstroke include noisy breathing, shock, white or blue gums and extreme lethargy. If you suspect heatstroke begin by applying rubbing alcohol to his foot pads, hosing him down with cool water, applying ice packs to the groin area and giving, water, ice chips or Pedialyte frequently and in small amounts. If you notice signs of advanced heatstroke get your dog to the vet immediately.
There is no reason you and your dog cannot safely enjoy the beautiful summer weather. But always be on the lookout for signs of dehydration and heatstroke. Be safe and have a happy summer!!
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