30/07/2024
Here are some useful tips FOR DOGS AT HOME I've found over the years to help your pets stay safe and cool over the hot summer.
Please feel free to share these posts should you or your friends/family find the information helpful.
I hope you and your fur babies enjoy the summer in store. ☀️
Dogs can get in trouble in weather such as this. Should they have excessive exercise they can find it very hard to regulate their temperature. I have many ways you may find can help them.
The most important thing I will say first is that you shouldn't over water your dog! Of course, make sure they have plenty of fresh water around to hydrate them - but make sure you moderate the amount for their size. Breeds with deep set chests like; Greyhounds, dachshunds, dobermans, pugs, French bull dogs, bassets etc - Can become quickly bloated from drinking too much/too fast. This can be fatal. Yes water hydrates your dog, it doesn't always cool them down. An easy way to check their temperature is to feel the more fleshy areas of the body; usually ears, inner thighs and arm pits. Should these be too hot, get a damp cloth and place on these areas (inner thighs would cover a larger skin surface) this really helps get to their veins and cools them down.
If your dog has long fur/double layered coat: Long fur can look like your dog is getting too hot. But the fur is there for a reason. Daily brushing is best to cool down your dogs. In doing so you help them shed their winter coat; plus it's a great one on one bonding time. If your dog has a double layered coat (like a husky/malamute) DO NOT shave them. The grooming will help them shed, but the extra fur actually helps insulate and help them keep a regular body temperature. If your dog has long fur (shepherds, collies or terriers) it isn't necessary to shave them - unless they have matted fur, are a darker shade or like a swim. Do consult with a vet or a groomer if you are unsure.
Ice Treats: WARNING; Before giving any ice to your dog make sure you hold it or wet it a bit - this takes away any dry ice preventing your dogs from having it painfully stick to their tongues.
You can freeze treats/fruit/veg in water to give as a refreshing snack. Make sure you watch your dogs if they haven't had ice before, so as they don't forget to chew and choke. You can find healthy recipes on line for frozen treats that they will love. Do remember canines cannot have certain things such as: Onions, wild mushrooms, avocado, rhubarb, grapes and raisins.
Paddling pools... Need I say more? Make cooling down a fun game!! With water guns, sprinklers and hoses. Even play catch with ice cubes.
You can also add frozen peas/carrots to their dinner.
Sorry if this was long. I'm going off the top of my head and didn't want to miss anything else. If I feel I did - I'll add it later on. Feel free to share your own advice too.
