31/08/2022
I know everybody knows this but its worth a reminder. We are expecting **extremely** hot weather this week and for our dogs it can actually be dangerous. The only cooling mechanism dogs have is panting, tongue out. Dogs do not sweat, except through the pads of their feet, so cooling is a challenge especially those dogs who love to fetch and run. These dogs just do not have the judgment to slow down or stop when they are in chase mode, and can easily overheat to the point of extreme danger including death. So, we have to be smart for them, and as much as they love the game, don't indulge them beyond a few tosses early in the morning when it is under 75 degrees. Then its time to take a short leash walk on grass to cool down, and remember they have bare feet. Concrete and blacktop get hot fast and can burn .So, if you wouldn't walk barefoot on it, don't ask them to. Brachycephalic ( short nosed) dogs like bulldogs ( Including Frenchies) are at greater risk of overheating than other dogs so its unsafe to leave them outside at all in temperatures over the mid 90s. . and dogs with short thin coats overheat sooner than dogs with a double coat like a German shepherd as the undercoat actually insulates. ( which is why you should not shave a double coated dog.) Bring them in and keep them quiet.( If your dog does not know how to settle and relax in the house, or is not accustomed to a wire crate, a trainer can help!) If your dog is panting excessively or has a very " long" tongue hanging out, stop, get to a cool place preferably indoors and put cool wet towels ( not ice) on his exposed belly, inner thigh, foot pads, and head. If he does not cool down gradually with rest, or maintains a temperature of 103 degrees or higher, seek medical attention right away. Enjoy the holiday with your pal and stay cool!
