18/07/2024
Eight tips to ensure your dog keeps cool over the hot Summer months:
1. PLAN YOUR WALKS
Avoid walking your dog or shorten the length of your walk if the weather is hot. Dogs cannot cope with heat as well as humansand even a warm day can cause dogs to overheat especially when exercising.
Would it be more sensible you to arrange your dogs walks for early Morning or lateer in the evening when the temperature has reduced to a more manageable level for your dog? If your dog does not require lengthy walks could you instead carry out some stimulating activities in your home?
If walking a dog in warm weather please ensure you and your dog take regular breaks in the shade and take some water and a portable bowl with you to ensure your dog has plenty of fluids.
2. PROTECT YOUR DOG'S PAWS FROM HOT SURFACES
Sand and tarmac are two surfaces which heat up in the sun and can therefore be painful for your dog’s paws. If you are in any doubt test the surface with the back of your hand and if it is too hot for you it will also be far to hot for your dogs paws. Confine your route to grassy and shaded areas to ensure your dogs comfort, if there are no such areas postpone your walk until the surface temerature drops to a more comfortable temperature.
3. LOOK OUT FOR SIGNS OF HEAT STROKE
Prevention is far better than cure and hopefully by taking note of the heat and temperature heat stroke will be avoided. Should the worst ever happen it is however vitally important you are able to recognise the signs of heat stroke in dogs which include:
• Heavy panting
• General Lethargy
• Shaking or weakness
• Foaming / drolling at the mouth
• Confusion or loss of coordination
• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Seizures
If you suspect your dog has heatstroke do not delay and contact your vet as a matter of urgency, whilst you contact your vet you should also:
• Move the dog to a shaded and cool area
• Keep them calm and still
• Place your dog top of a cool wet towel, cooling mat or place them in the breeze of a fan
• Allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water
• Pour cool water over the dog’s feet, ears and head. Never use ice or very cold water as this can cause shock
• Gradually start to move cool water over their body but not too much or this will induce shivering.
• If possible, continue to cool your dog on transit to your vet
4. USE UP YOUR DOGS ENERGY IN ALTERNATIVE WAYS
In warm weather it’s is maybe an option to explore ways ways to use up your dog’s mental and physical energy other than undertaking dog walks. As an example if your dog likes to run for hours this would be very unwise in warmer temperatures. You could instead hide their toys or treats in a small area and let them find them by their sense of smell you could also freeze their food or use frozen treats in toys or food puzzle toys to keep them stimulated. As a further option you could encourage your dog to play with their toys or treats in a shaded paddling pool. The most important point is being careful to ensure whatever the activity your dog remains calm and well out of the heat of the day.
5. NEVER LEAVE DOGS IN CARS
It seems obvious however despite numerous warnings some humans still leave their dogs in hot cars! Leaving a dog alone in a hot car can be fatal, evenif you park your car in the shade with the windows open, dogs can still become distressed and uncomfortable and could develop heat stroke very quickly. Make sure you always have a plan, so your dog isn't left alone in the car or any other enclosed spaces.
If at all possible you should avoid travelling in your car with your dog on a hot day. If you do need to travel, make sure that you use sun shade covers on the windows, so avoiding direct sunlight on your animal whilst you are travelling. A good tip is to ensure you have cooled your car down and have the air conditioning on prior to putting your dog in. Try to avoid travelling at the hottest time of the day and consider your route travelling when there is less traffic wherever possible so ensuring you do not get caught up in heavy traffic for prolonged periods of time. Always ensure you dog has adequate supplies of water for the duration of your journey. A non splash bowl is recommended and these are widely available on the market place.
6. ENSURE YOUR DOG REMAINS FIT AND HEALTHY
It's very important to keep your dog fit and healthy all year round, whatever that looks like for them. During warmer weather it's especially important to help them maintain a healthy weight. Most dogs are less active when it's hot, so it may be beneficial to adjust the amount of food you give them to reflect how much energy they expend. Warmer weather is also a great opportunity to practice basic tricks and training indoors as it is a lot cooler indoors and can help you maintain a great relationship with your dog and help keep your dog’s brain active.
7. BE CAREFUL LETTING THEM SWIM
Some dogs just love water and swimming and cool water can be so tempting for your dog in hot weather as it is a great way to cool off. You should however be mindful that some places can be unsafe and might have strong currents that can be dangerous, or algae and bacteria which could make your dog sick.
Unless you know the area well and are absolutely sure the area is a safe environment for your dog it may be far safer for you to try and locate clear, clean shallow streams your dog can paddle in briefly to cool off. You should also ensure you provide your dog with separate clean water in a water bowl for them to drink.
8. REMEMBER TO REGULARY GROOM YOUR DOG
Regular grooming and clipping will keep your dog's coat clean, free of knots, and helps them keep cool. Speak to a professional groomer as they will know what’s best for your dog and their specific coat.
We hope this provides you with some help and advice, now the remember Summer is a fun time for dogs and humans alike so get out their with your four legged friends and enjoy the Summer whilst it lasts!
