Beat the Heat:
Keeping your dog cool this Summer
We all love to stay cool in summer and that includes our furry friends! Just like us, our pups get hot and bothered so it is important we keep them safe and happy. We have compiled a list of DOGUE Summer tips that will ensure your dog beats the heat.
Water, water, water!
Fresh water is essential to keeping your pup hydrated and well equipped for the heat. Remember, nothing feels better on a hot day than a cool drink. Dogs must always have a supply of water available to them and in these summer months it is vital. Just like us, they can get dehydrated. To ensure your dog is safely hydrated:
- Provide several large bowls of drinking water for your dog/s around your home or yard, making sure to check and refill them at least once per day.
- Make sure the water bowl suits the dog (it’s not much good if it can’t get to the water). Find your pawfect dog water bowl at DOGUE.
- If you dog does not seem to drink much, place a few ice cubes in the water, they can bob for these at the same time as taking in a bit of fluid.
- One of the easiest ways to ensure that your dog takes in more fluid is to feed them more wet food during summer.
Time your walks
Even with the heat, dogs still need to burn energy, even on the hottest of days! However, since for your pups sake you want to avoid physical exertion, venture outside early in the morning or later in the evening when the temperature is lower. Especially relevant for evening exercise, check the temperature of the ground to make sure it is not too hot for your pooch’s paws!
Surfaces such as asphalt, sand and dirt are prone to getting very hot after the sun has been beating down on it throughout the day this may burn your dog’s paw pads. To make sure it is okay to walk:
- Place the back of your hand against the hot surface for 5 to 7 seconds, and it's too hot for you, then it's too hot for your dog's paws.
- While on your early morning or late evening walks, bring along a portable water bowl or have a dedicated dog water bottle. You need to have enough water for the entire outing.
Grooming
While the fur on a dog actually does have a purpose in summer, to protect the skin from the sun, there is no doubt that regular grooming has a positive impact on their level of comfort. To keep your dog feeling fresh:
- Use a de-shedding brush every few days to remove the loose hair that, when left in amongst the fur, simply adds to the heat of the coat.
- Clipping is also a great option for dogs with a heavy coat and you can just imagine the relief that they must feel when this comes off during summer. A bath is a wonderful way to cool the dog off and you can bring them into your local DOGUE store.
Stay indoors during the hottest days
Perhaps the most obvious suggestion is that you and your dog stay inside with the air conditioning or a fan blowing, especially during the hottest part of the day. However, not everyone, including your dog, may want to be trapped inside when the sun is shining. If your pup does go outdoors, make sure there is an area where you dog can cool off. Whether is a shady spot outside or a safe place indoors. It is also a good idea to plan some outdoor activities with your dog that might involve playing in water (of course only if you dog likes it).
If your dog is restless look into enrichment toys and boredom busters, that will keep them entertained for hours.
Cool treats
Whilst you are enjoying a cool icy pole make sure to remember your pup! Simply use ice cube trays or muffin trays to freeze low salt chicken or beef stock (just make sure not to mix them up). Making frozen dog treats can be as simple or as complicated as you want it to be. Depending on what you have on hand and which flavours your dog prefers, you can whip up a range of creative concoctions.
Identify Heatstroke
Heat stroke in dogs occurs when they are exposed to excessive external or environmental heat. You must take care of your fur baby when they are out in the summer for an extended period as too much heat causes serious problems.
Signs that your dog is overheated include:
- Excessive panting or drooling
- Weakness
- Disorientation
- Gums and/or tongue change colour (to a bright or bluish) red
Make sure to have a preventative plan for those hot days! If your dog starts showing these signs it is recommended you contact your local vet.
Sun protection
Just like us, dogs can get sunburnt and may be prone to skin cancer. There are a wide range of dog sunscreen or specially designed clothes that you may want to use on those sunny days.
In Summary:
- Don’t leave your dog in a parked car. Dogs can become distressed and uncomfortable so it is always best to preplan any trip your dog may be taking with you and pack the necessary items to help keep your dog cool and hydrated.
- Ensure your pet has access to shade and enough space to move around
- Ensure your pet has fresh water in large containers. Water intake is double in high temperatures and humidity
- Increase air flow if your pet is inside
- Avoid moving or exercising animals in peak day time temperatures
- Ensure they are still fed twice a day (morning and early evening)
- Try making frozen treats and leave them out for your pet on hot day
Make sure to consult with your vet if you have any concerns.
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