Summer temperatures are skyrocketing into the 90s and above. While many of us can retreat to the movies for some respite, how can pet parents keep their dogs cool?
Here are some tips to help out during the hottest of days.
By the way, we always recommend reaching out to your vet before doing these tips, so all aspects of your dog’s health are considered.
Cooldown Dog Tips
There are a handful of ways to help keep your dog cool while temps are on the rise. While being indoors with the AC is the most optimal choice, some families may not have air conditioning. If that’s the case, check out these items and see whether or not it’s a good fit:
Purchase a self-cooling pet pad which keeps dogs comfy on the warmest of days. If buying a cooling pad is not an option, instead use a cool, wet towel. While a damp towel won’t offer the same timeframe for cooling like a pad, it’s an excellent jumpstart and even better when the towel is wetted down frequently and replaced throughout the day.
Toss a few ice cubes in the water bowl.
Access to fresh water.
Purchase a wading pool and fill it with shallow and cool water. If possible, place the wading pool under a shade cloth.
Outdoor misters along with a shade cloth also help bring down those temp numbers.
Research making some easy but tasty dog-friendly frozen treats.
Dog Exercise Tips
While keeping in shape is important during every season of the year, in the hot summer months, picking the right time of day is crucial.
Taking your dog out for a walk during the coolest time of the day (early mornings and/or early evenings) is the safest thing to do. That’s when the ground’s surface is cooler to the touch, so paw pads aren’t injured, and the heat overall won’t jeopardize a dog’s health.
While on walks, be sure that you bring water for both yourself and your dog. If your dog starts to breathe heavy, then it’s time to a short cut home while gauging how they are doing.
Be Mindful of Dog Breeds Sensitive To The Heat
Not all dogs react to the heat in the same way. Brachycephalic breeds are short-muzzled dogs that have a decreased nasal pathway compared to other breeds. These types of dogs include but are not limited to French Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers, Boxer, Bullmastiff, and Pekingese.
What To Watch Out For In Dogs Overheating
While short-muzzled dogs are more prone to overheating, all dogs are susceptible to heatstroke. Symptoms to watch out for include:
- Panting
- Extreme salivation
- Muscle tremors
- Fatigue
- Unsteady gait
- A temperature of more than 101.5
If any of these signs are present, contact your veterinarian immediately.
About Us
At Performance K9 Training, we help people build the perfect pet relationship. We understand that each dog has their own unique personality and needs a tailored program to address specific behavioral issues. Contact us today to get started!
