As the weather continues to heat up, it’s important to make sure that we’re doing our best to keep our four-legged friends safe. Dogs can’t communicate when they’re in distress, so it’s up to us as pet owners to be vigilant in our care of them. One of the major questions that comes up every summer is, “Are dogs OK in 90 degree heat?” The answer isn’t a simple yes or no, so in this blog post we’ll be taking a closer look at how to identify the signs of heatstroke in dogs and how to protect them from heat-related issues. We’ll also be discussing the best ways to keep your pup cool and comfortable even in temperatures that are over 90 degrees Fahrenheit. With a few simple steps and a bit of knowledge, you can make sure your pup is safe and sound all summer long.
How hot is too hot for dogs, exactly? What temperatures are considered dangerous?
Each dog will have a slightly different tolerance to heat, just like humans.
Individuals differ in their susceptibility to the heat and heat exhaustion, according to Dr Squillace said. As a result, it is impossible to estimate the maximum temperature an animal can tolerate. ”.
Try to avoid going outside if it’s any hotter than 90 degrees Fahrenheit because conditions can quickly become more dangerous at those higher temperatures.
Avoid leaving your dog outside for too long in temperatures between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, make sure he has access to plenty of water and shade, and watch out for any early indications of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
As a general rule, you should reconsider taking your dog to the dog park or on a long walk if you step outside and it feels intolerably hot.
What to Do if You Suspect Your Dog Has Heat Stroke
Lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and dark red gums are all symptoms of heat-related distress, BluePearl Veterinary Partners states. Take your pet right away to your veterinarian or the closest emergency veterinary hospital if it starts to pant uncontrollably or collapses. “.
And Dr. Connelly, pet owners should use a hose or a bathtub to spray cool (not freezing) water on their animals if they experience these symptoms.
Then, while traveling to the veterinary clinic, wrap them in cool, wet towels and fan them. Even if owners cool down their animals, they may still require veterinary care and/or medication.
Pets should not be given sports drinks or electrolyte supplements, advises BluePearl Veterinary Partners. Dogs pant to cool off and do not sweat like people do. Sports drinks and other supplements can actually cause harm to animals and make them ill. ”.
The Texas Veterinary Medical Association suggests:
Factors that increase risk of heat illness in dogs
Some dogs are more prone to heat-related illnesses due to their physical characteristics, their physical state, or a combination of both.
Your pet is more likely to suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke if:
However, any dog can be vulnerable, so you should always be ready.
FAQ
How long can a dog be in 90 degree heat?
While small puppies can spend a few hours outside in temperatures between 60oF and 90oF, Dr. Wooten.
What heat is too hot for dogs?
Try to avoid going outside if it’s any hotter than 90 degrees Fahrenheit because conditions can quickly become more dangerous at those higher temperatures.
Is 95 too hot for a dog?
Pets are at risk for heatstroke once the outside temperature reaches at least 80 degrees and a humidity level of at least 90 percent, according to a good rule of thumb.
Should I bring my dog in if its 90 degrees?
Extreme Weather When the outside temperature is 20 degrees Fahrenheit or lower, your dog must be brought inside a temperature-controlled structure, such as your home. The temperature outside is 90°F & above. There’s a heat advisory.