I love the summer and especially being able to take my dogs to the coast where they love to run around on the beach. However, once the temperatures begin to get too high, just a walk or some outside play time can be really hard on them. So here is how to keep your dog cool in the summer.
Keep Your Home Cool
If your loved ones are at home whilst you are working make sure your house is cool. If possible leave windows open but the curtains closed to prevent direct sunlight getting in. If you have aircon then put it on a timer and occasionally have it on. A fan can also help and so can a cooling vest or mat.
Never Leave Them In A Car
Dogs Die In Hot Cars and that’s a fact. Even if you think you will only be away for a few minutes the temperature inside can soar in just a short time. The rule is, NEVER leave your dog in the car. On a 30 degree Celsius day (85 F) your car can hit 39 degrees C (102 F) in 10 minutes. You really have to either leave him at home, or take him out of the car with you.
Be careful When You Exercise
Be aware of the temperatures outside and of the temperature of the ground you are walking on. Our dogs have delicate paws so hot tarmac can really hurt them. Try to walk on grass and stay off the streets. Touch the pavement, and if it’s too hot for your hand, it will definitely be too hot for their paws. Walk them early in the morning or later in the evening, and make sure you take plenty of water for you BOTH. If need be, provide your dogs with booties to protect their paws.
Take Plenty Of Water And Use Shade
Don’t take your dog out for too long and look for shade whilst you are walking. Before you leave put ice cubes in your water container so that when you stop you can both have a cold refreshing drink. Trees make excellent shade and are better than dog houses in your garden. It can get extremely hot in a dog house so its better to have your loved one under a tree where air can circulate.
Make Cooling Treats
Help your dog keep cool from the inside. You can make all sorts of tasty treats by freezing chews in ice cubes.
Groom Your Dog
If your dog has long hair make sure you keep him free from tangles and mats. This will help air circulate to his skin and keep him cool. Speak to your groomer before clipping him short as the fur that keeps him warm in winter can also help him in the summer.
See Your Vet
Keep his vaccinations up to date, especially in summer. Summer is high season for fleas, which spread many diseases, and mosquitoes, which carry heart worm. Make sure he has had his flea tablets etc to prevent these pests.
Signs Of Overheating
Your furry friend cannot tell you when he is poorly or overheating so keep an eye out for these symptoms:
- Heavy Drooling
- Heavy Panting
- Trouble Breathing (Especially in at-risk dogs like pugs and bulldogs. Also, older and overweight dogs)
- Rapid Heartbeat
- Dark or red gums and tongue
- Dizziness
- Agitation
- Weakness
If you see any of the above symptoms get out of the sun and to the vet as soon as possible.
Conclusion
As you can see from the above there are lot’s to think about when being out and about with your dog in the summer. Take care of your furry loved ones as you would take care for yourself.
Check out some of the accessories that I have mentioned above:
Do you have any tips of advice for fellow dog owners in the summer? If so, please drop me a line.
All the best, enjoy your summer and stay safe.
David