For many, summertime means heading to the beach to have fun under the sun but for us paw-rents, this is a time for taking extra precautions to ensure that our furry friends stay comfortable and cool this season.
Luckily, we at Maxime have gathered expert tips to help you and your doggos have fun while staying safe from the sweltering heat! Read on to check out our tips below.
1. Provide plenty of fresh and clean water
Hydration is key! It goes without saying that giving enough fresh and clean water to your dog is a must but making sure to fill up your dog’s water bowl, especially during hot days, is always a top priority!
When you’re out for a walk or a short drive, remember to bring water and a portable bowl for your dog to drink from so they can stay hydrated.
2. Ice it up!
On particularly hot days, we reach for an ice cream tub or a popsicle. Here’s a little secret: did you know that your dog might love those too? Try making them a homemade fruit popsicle or frozen juice bar to snack on. Avoid feeding your dogs commercial or store-bought yogurt and ice cream as those might contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which could potentially harm your dog.
If fruit juice bars are not to your dog’s liking, go for their other favorite flavors! Try making frozen dog treats by freezing chicken broth in a popsicle mold. Additionally, ice cubes alone might do the trick in helping your dog cool down!
3. Find your dog a cool spot to rest on
Whether you prefer to keep your dogs strictly indoors or have them lounging around in the patio every now and then, make sure that they have a well-shaded area that they can comfortably rest on. Draw them away from direct sunlight and encourage them to stay on a cooling mat or place a damp towel on the floor for them to lie on.
4. Plan your walks
If the temperature outside is too warm for you, it’s probably the same for your furbaby too! Remember that your dog has direct contact with surfaces through their paws and a warm asphalt might be too uncomfortable for them.
Keep your dog cool while allowing them to get their daily exercise by going for an early morning or late evening walk. Take frequent breaks when needed and keep your walks short and sweet.
5. Practice regular grooming
Remember to be faithful to your furbaby’s regular grooming routine! Brush your dog’s coat and clip it to avoid knots and tangles, especially if your dog is of a particular hairy breed. Matting can trap heat, resulting in overheating for your canine friends.
Signs of heatstroke in dogs
Keep this in mind: if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your pets as well. Some days are best spent indoors with a steady circulation of cool air around you.
Heatstroke can develop in dogs when they fail to regulate their body temperature. Heatstroke is fatal and can lead to neurological problems, kidney failure, and even death.
Be familiar with the signs and observe your furbaby properly.
Signs of a heatstroke include:
Heavy panting
Glazed eyes
Excessive salivation
Lack of coordination
Vomiting or diarrhea
Loss of consciousness
Dark red or pale gums
If you suspect your dog is suffering from a heatstroke, immediately transfer them to a cooler environment and contact your veterinarian. Apply damp towels soaked in cold water to their head, neck, and chest. You can also rinse their mouth with water to help them cool faster. Never place them directly into ice-cold water as this might cause them to go into shock.
If your dog’s temperature goes above 104 degrees (40 degrees celsius), remember that this is a sign for you to decrease activity and help them cool down. We recommend bringing a digital thermometer and taking your pup’s temperature just to be sure.
Ensuring the safety and well-being of your furbaby is a part of being a responsible dog owner. The above tips can help you and your dog continue to have fun under the sun despite the longer and warmer days!
If you have any questions or concerns about your dog’s health, especially in the summer, always consult your trusted veterinarian.
References:
https://www.battersea.org.uk/pet-advice/dog-care-advice/summer-dog-care
