Keep Your Dog Healthy and Safe on Hot Days

PawsitivePawsPet Safety

Keep Your Dog Healthy and Safe on Hot Days – Safety Tip of the Month

Summer is a great time for trips to the beach, pool parties, play-dates, and evening walks at the park.  However, the heat the summer brings can be dangerous for our dogs, causing illness, injuries and even death.  Here are some summer tips to keep your dog healthy and safe on hot days:

  • On hot days, limit the amount of exercise and do not hike or jog with your dog.

  • Keep your dog off pavement and cement.  When the air temperature is 77 degrees, asphalt temperature may be as high as 125 degrees.  At 125 degrees, skin destruction can happen in just 60 seconds.  When in doubt, test the ground with the back of your hand.  If you can’t hold your hand on the asphalt for more than 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog.

  • Never leave your dog in the car, not even in the shade with the windows rolled down.  Dogs die every summer in cars, even with the windows down, in a matter of minutes.

  • Provide access to cool, fresh water at all times. The FrostyBowlz Chilled Pet Bowl is a great way to keep your dog’s water cold on hot days.

  • If your dog is outdoors, they should have access to shade and water.  Trees and overhangs provide are the best source of shade, since they allow for airflow.  Dog houses actually prevent airflow and can become too hot.

  • Never shave your dog.  A dog’s coat helps them regulate their body temperature and protects them from getting sunburned and over heating.  Light trims and brushing are good ways help reduce shedding and to keep your dog a little cooler.

  • Cool beds, Cooling vests, wading pools, playing in the sprinklers, and wetting your dog down with cold water are other great ways to help your dog stay cool on hot days.

  • Watch for signs of heatstroke, which include:

    • Excessive panting

    • Increased salivation / heavy drooling

    • Weakness

    • Vomiting

    • Diarrhea

    • Pale or red gums

    • Rapid heart rate

    • Increased temperature – above 103 degrees

    • Depression

Heat stroke can cause seizures, cardiac arrest and even death. If you suspect your dog is suffering from heat stroke, seek medical care immediately.

Wishing your dog a cool, healthy, and safe summer!

Keep Your Dog Healthy and Safe on Hot Days