01/05/2025
How hot is too hot for your dog..!!
Especially in a country where heatwaves are often sudden and therefore do not allow dogs to gradually acclimatise to the sun and heat.
I am a huge believer in 'no dog ever died from missing a walk, but hundreds have died from being walked or being in a car that isn't adequately cooled beforehand or whilst the dog is in the car'.
Heatstroke can come on very quickly, and can have devastating consequences. All may be fine one minute, and the next, your dog is showing signs of heatstroke.
Below I have added photos as useful information on temperature guides, symptoms, and risks for our dogs, but I go one step further and say KNOW YOUR DOG, OBSERVE & LISTEN. Do what's right for YOUR dog..!!
I have a large breed black and tan dog that really struggles in hot summer sun. Although he has no underlying health conditions, I personally will not walk him in 20 degree and above temperatures. He is shortcoated, he is also predominently black, which can cause further heat absorption. He will seek the sun in the garden and given the chance, will fry himself in it. It is MY responsibility to manage his time outside, and to keep him safe and comfortable.
How You Can Help Your Dog In a Heatwave.....
*Constant access to fresh, cool water is a must.
*Pup cups and small amounts of ice cubes in water bowls are great for cooling your dogs inner core.
*Although we are guided by hottest temperatures being between 10am and 3pm, this doesn't mean it's ok for our dogs to be out, walked, or in the car outside of these times. I often find by 8am it is becoming too hot for my dog to cope.
*Stay local and don't walk too far from home. When starting out on a walk it may appear fine but half an hour in, it has become increasingly hotter. You then have to deal with getting your dog home safely without getting heatstroke. I have had personal experience with this one many years ago and it really frightened me.
*Carry water. Not only as an obvious drinking source but also can be used to temporarily cool the ears, head and belly if your dog gets too hot.
*Tarmac, Patio Tiles, Decking, Concrete and Pavement Temperatures get extremely hot 🔥, increasing likelihood of heatstroke and burnt pads. Check temperatures with the back of your hand or taking your shoes off and walking on the surface yourself beforehand.
*Limit your dogs exposure to the sun. If, like mine, they are sunworshippers, bring them in to cool down often, and consider not allowing them out in the garden if it is really hot outside.
*A BIG ONE....Don't let guilt rule your decisions. Yes, they may beg you to go out for a walk but if you are already debating that it is too hot, you are probably right. Know that you are making these decisions based on your dogs health as a responsible owner and be proud of that..!!
*If your dog absolutely has to travel in a car for vet appointment etc... run the air-conditioning in your car first to cool the car down before your dog gets in. Keep the air-conditioning on whilst travelling and don't leave your dog in the car unattended or without air-conditioning. Cars heat very quickly. Also use shade blinds in rear and side windows to block direct sunlight on your dog.
*Consider keeping curtains and windows closed, using aircon, fans, cooling mats, cooling coats, or a wet and wringed out towel to help your dog cope with indoor heat. Dog pools are great for gardens if your dog likes water.
*Short/flat nosed breeds, senior dogs, long haired dogs, and overweight dogs are particularly susceptible to heatstroke so particular attention and care should be taken.
*Consider keeping your dog mentally stimulated by hiding treats around the house, using licky mats/treat games, and doing short training sessions instead of going out. Moderate dinner portions to accommodate any extra treats.
*LISTEN to your dog. If they are not looking to go for a walk or to be outside when they usually are...respect that. If they want to be left alone or sleep..respect that.
*OBSERVE your dog. Know the signs of heatstroke.
*Contact your vet IMMEDIATELY if you believe your dog has heatstroke.
