As temperatures rise in the summer months, it is important for dog owners to be mindful of keeping their pup safe and comfortable in the heat. Just like their human owners, dogs can become over heated and suffer from heat stroke if they are not monitored and cooled properly. Knowing how to keep your dog cool and comfortable during the summer months is essential for any responsible pet owner. In this blog post, we will cover the best practices and strategies to keep your dog cool while enjoying the summer weather. Learn the best ways to prevent your pup from overheating, from keeping them in the shade to choosing the right cooling products. With the right precautions and strategies, you can ensure that your dog stays happy, healthy and cool during the hot summer months.
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Both humans and dogs can become suffocated by the summertime heat. And when we lose power, it stresses not only our own bodies but also the bodies of our dogs. You can take a few measures to stay cool in the sweltering heat, both for you and your dog.
She designed and built her own clinic in 2007, realizing her dream of being her own boss. Serving as the county’s shelter veterinarian while running her clinic was another fulfilling responsibility. This gave her the chance to work with the rescue she adored while also helping many animals in her community. To relocate across the country in 2019, she sold her practice.
Veterinarian Beth Turner has worked in the field for more than 20 years. After completing her studies at North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine, she started her career as an associate veterinarian and collaborated closely with the neighborhood shelter.
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Have Plenty of Fresh, Cold Water Available
Make sure your dog has access to fresh, cold water whether you’re taking them on a hike or they’re just playing in the backyard. Dogs who don’t drink enough water while playing run the risk of developing heat exhaustion. It’s crucial to give them regular rest periods and water breaks because this is particularly true during hot, humid weather.
When exercising in warm weather, a dog’s water needs are thought to more than double. Bring a foldable water bowl or squirt bottle, and make sure they are properly hydrated by giving them small amounts of water every 15 to 20 minutes while they are exercising.
Knowing how to cool down an overheated dog is crucial. If your dog starts panting excessively, start by giving them water, and take them to the shade right away. Arleigh Reynolds, a senior research nutritionist for Purina and a veterinarian, issues a warning against administering too much water at once.
“Don’t let a 45 to 55 pound dog drink more than four to eight ounces of water at a time,” the advice goes. Ten to fifteen minutes later, when they’ve had a chance to absorb it and get it out of their system, give them some more [water]. Giving too much water at once may result in bloat, vomiting, and other dangerous conditions.
A wet dog is a cool dog, so keep that in mind when attempting to cool one down. Plan water-related summertime activities with your dog outside, such as swimming in lakes or swimming through sprinklers. One of the most enjoyable ways to shield your dog from the summer heat is through water sports.
Depending on the temperature and humidity, you and your dog can exercise outside at any time of day. For a midday run or walk, a mild, overcast day with low humidity may be suitable.
It’s best to avoid the midday heat if it’s sunny, 80 degrees, and humid. On those kinds of days, if you do need to exercise, try to go when it’s cooler, like early in the morning or later in the evening.
Before you leave, don’t forget to check the pavement’s temperature. Asphalt can become very hot in direct sunlight even on mild days. Make sure to check the temperature by placing your hand on the pavement. You can also pour water on blacktops. If it immediately begins to steam up, your dog cannot handle the heat.
You can purchase small boots for your dog’s paws, but you must exercise caution when using them, advises Dr. Reynolds. “If they get hot, it will cause a problem anyway. ” He prefers walking his dogs on trails. They are less likely to cause harm because they don’t have hard surfaces and are usually shaded.
FAQ
What is the fastest way to cool down a dog?
Allowing your dog to cool off in a body of fresh water, such as a lake or kiddie pool, depends on where you are. If not, you can assist him by using towels or cool, wet cloths. You can also lightly mist his ears and paw pads with cool water. Place your cool wet cloths on his neck, armpits, and in the space in between his hind legs.
What can I give my dog to keep him cool?
- Move the dog to a shaded and cool area.
- Keep them calm and still.
- Place them in the breeze of a fan, on top of a cooling mat, or on a cool, wet towel.
- Allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water.
- Pour cool water over the dog’s feet, ears and head.
How do I keep my dog cool on a hot day?
- Battery-operated fan.
- chamois-based cool cloths, similar to those used to dry cars at car washes.
- cooling vest that disperses heat and evaporatively cools the dog
- a cold, wet towel that you can spread out for your dog to lie on or a cooling crate pad