Protect Your Dog From Summer Heat

Dogs are sensitive to heat and can easily suffer from heat-related illnesses, especially during the summer months. As a responsible pet owner, it’s crucial to take certain precautions to keep your furry friend safe and comfortable during hot weather. Here are some tips to help your dog cope with summer heat:

• Provide plenty of water: Ensure that your dog has access to fresh, clean water at all times. Dehydration can happen quickly in hot weather, so make sure to refill their water bowl frequently.
• Create a cool environment: Keep your home cool and well-ventilated. If you have air conditioning, use it to maintain a comfortable temperature. If not, consider using fans or providing a shaded area for your dog to rest.
• Avoid hot surfaces: Asphalt and concrete can become scorching hot under the summer sun, leading to paw pad burns. Walk your dog during cooler parts of the day or on grassy surfaces. Read Protecting Paw Pads in Summer Heat. It’s a 2-minute read packed with good information about your dog’s paws.
• If possible invest in dog booties to protect their paws.
• Limit outdoor activities: Minimize strenuous activities and exercise during the hottest hours of the day. Instead, opt for walks and playtime during the cooler mornings or evenings.
• Never leave your dog in a parked car: Even with the windows cracked open, the temperature inside a car can rise to dangerous levels within minutes. Leaving your dog in a parked car, even for a short time, can be life-threatening. If you think your dog is fine in the car because you’ve left the air conditioning on, think about if the car were to suddenly turn off.
• Use cooling products: You can find cooling vests, bandanas, and mats designed to help regulate a dog’s body temperature. These products can provide relief during hot weather.
• Watch for signs of heatstroke: Symptoms of heatstroke in dogs include excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, collapse, and seizures. If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog to a cool area, offer water, and seek immediate veterinary attention.
• Grooming: Regular grooming can help keep your dog’s coat in good condition and prevent matting, which can trap heat.
• Frozen treats: Treat your dog to frozen goodies like ice cubes made from chicken broth or frozen dog treats. This can provide some relief from the heat.
• Swimming: If your dog enjoys swimming, a dip in a pool or a shallow body of water can be an excellent way for them to cool off.