How To Keep Your Dog Cool During The Heat
A dog is at risk of heatstroke even at temperatures as low as 20 degrees Celsius, which can be fatal within 15 minutes.
In order to ensure that your dog is doing well during the hot weather, you should always take steps to ensure that they don't overheat. That's why we have wrapped up the best tips from around the web for you to refer back to when temperatures peak.
1. Adjust your walking routine
On a hot, sunny day, it may be tempting to take your dog for a long walk, but this can be dangerous.
Walking your dog early in the morning or late at night is best when the ground is cooler. Not only will this protect their paws, but it will also make them feel more comfortable.
It is possible to cause severe pain to their paws even on short walks due to hot pavements, asphalt, and artificial grass. The temperature of asphalt and tarmac when the sun is at its hottest can rise to 52°C even on a pleasant, breezy day.
Try placing your hand on the ground for seven seconds if you're not sure if the pavement is too hot. When you cannot hold it down, it's too hot to walk your dog.
2. Identify heatstroke early
When your dog can't regulate their body temperature, heatstroke occurs, which is one of the most common illnesses in warm weather.
Symptoms include excessive sweating, drooling, a reddened gum, vomiting and diarrhoea. There is a risk of death from heatstroke if left untreated.
During hot weather, you should keep a close eye on your dog to ensure they don't overheat. Don't leave them alone in the car, even with the windows open, and make sure they have plenty of shady spots in the garden and in the house when it gets hot.
A vet should be consulted immediately if you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke.
3. Use a sunblock suitable for dogs
Dogs are just as vulnerable to sunburn as humans if they are not properly protected. A breed with short, white hair or pink ears is more vulnerable to sun damage, so protect them as much as possible. You should apply dog-specific sun cream to your dog's sensitive areas (nose, lips, tips of the ears, belly) and keep them out of the sun during the hottest part of the day.
4. Keep them hydrated
Water is essential for dogs during warmer weather in order to prevent dehydration. Whether at home, in the garden, or out walking, ensuring that fresh, clean water is readily available is essential.
Making pet ice lollies, playing with garden sprinklers, and flavouring drinking water are some ways you can encourage your dog to drink more. It may also be a good idea to invest in a travel water bowl or portable bottle so they have something to drink on the go. In the case of a real emergency, they will happily drink water from your hands if you get stuck.
5. Damp towels
Keeping your dog's paws and stomach cool is essential, since dogs cool themselves from the bottom up. A simple, effective way to keep your dog cool in the heat is to lay damp towels or blankets out for them to lie on. Use a towel to create a portable cooling mat anywhere in your home or garden by running it under a cold tap and wringing it out. For best results, make sure to recool it regularly. A cool-mat may also be a good option. Easily available on Amazon, these are another great way to keep your dog cool.
6. Less exercise
While it's always crucial to make sure your dog gets plenty of exercise, you may need to reduce this slightly during warm weather. Dehydration and overheating are common problems that can occur when your dog engages in too much physical activity during hot weather.
7. Regular grooming
The act of grooming your dog can help it regulate its temperature, particularly if their fur is long or thick. In addition to brushing regularly to remove shedding fur, consider clipping it short to allow more air to cool the skin.
It is never a good idea to shave your dog because it can make them susceptible to sunburn. Rather, ask your vet or dog groomer what advice they can give you about your dog's summer coat.
8. Get wet
The good thing about playing with water is that it's a fun way to keep your dog cool in hot weather. You can set up a sprinkler or paddling pool in the garden so they can stay refreshed while playing. For puppies or older dogs that love to chew, you can buy freezable chew toys – these are another great option for occupying your dog somewhere shaded with a toy to enjoy while they play.
💫 Bookmark these tips for the next time temperatures start to rise. 💫