
5 tips to keep your dog cool this summer
|
|
Time to read 2 min
|
|
Time to read 2 min
Now that summer’s arrived, we’re excited to have plenty of adventures with our companions?! However, summertime means heat stress - and it’s something we need to prepare for. Heat stroke in dogs, heat exhaustion, and dehydration are very serious dangers. In fact, they can lead to brain damage, organ failure, and even death.
So this blog will help you understand why your dog experiences heat differently from you…including tips to help keep them cool during summer.
Did you know certain dogs are more prone to heat stroke than other dogs?
- For example, brachycephalic dogs (short-muzzled, flat face breeds) already have restricted breathing, so extreme heat can affect their breathing.
- Obese dogs - they are carrying extra fat, meaning they carry unwanted insulation!
- Dogs with dark coats, solar radiation is absorbed more (rather than being reflected).
Aside from the heat itself, other problems to consider are paw burn, wasp & bee stings, ticks, fleas & mites. So now onto the 5 tips to keep your dog cool this summer.
EXTRA TIP: Try ice cubes made with low-salt chicken stock for a treat.
Skin elasticity is a sure sign, so here’s a simple check. Gently pick an area of skin on their back into a fold, it should return back into place once you let go. When the skin stays up in a ridge, it’s a sign of dehydration. Other sure signs, aside from a severe lack of energy, are dryness of the mouth, sunken eyes, circulatory collapse.
Are you a lunchtime or early afternoon dog walker? Consider taking them out for some daily exercise early morning and early evening as this avoids the peak heat! If your schedule is rigid, plan your route somewhere with maximum shade - somewhere close to some water is perfect for a doggy paddle.
Dogs enjoy the sun like we do, but don’t let them sit there and bake themselves. Remember to test the surface with your own hands or feet to gauge whether it’s too hot or not. As a test, place the back of your hand on the surface, if it’s too hot, then it’s too hot for your pooch!
EXTRA TIP: The tips of their ears, nose, forehead and areas of fur you can feel getting hot all need sunblock to protect them from the UV rays!
Whilst a nice fur trim looks neat and tidy, it’s also VERY practical during the hot summer months. If your dog’s a breed or mix that would benefit from regular trims, get it done. Your pooch will thank you for taking that extra layer off!