Cool Puppy or Hot Dog

 

With summer in full swing, we need to consider how the heat affects our dogs. We've come up with a few special tips that may help keep your pets safe and happy in the heat.

 

The most important thing to know is that dogs cannot sweat.  We (humans) sweat to help us cool down. Dogs cool down through their tongues, and through the pads under their paws.  Keep this in mind when reading the information below.

1. Timing is everything

The hottest time of the day is usually between 11.30am and 4.00pm, when the sun is at its highest and your shadow is at its shortest.  If you're going to exercise your dog, it's best to do so outside of these hours, and even better is early in the morning, or later in the evening.

2. Shade is key

Whether you're walking or sitting, make sure you find shady spots to help your dog cool off.  If you are going to walk during the hotter times, try do so around wooded and tree-lined areas. This will provide lots of natural shade for your dogs.

3. Careful where you walk

Pavements get hot. So hot that you can sometimes cook an egg on them. Remember, we said at the start that dogs cool down through the pads under their paws? If they have to walk on hot cement, not only can it hurt or even burn their paws, but if their paws are kept hot, they cannot cool down.  Think how hot beach sand gets - tar can be worse. Always walk your dogs on the shaded side of the street or on the grass wherever possible. If you are walking on the tar or concrete, feel it with your hands, and if necessary, find a better route.  Check under your dogs paws occasionally for cuts, bruising, and discolouration.

4. Water, water, and more water

Always carry water for your dogs. This is even more important in the heat, but also important if you take your dogs for long walks.  We (Long Paws) sell our Lick 'n' Flow style Pet Water Bottles. We think they are the best, but there are many other ways to carry water - whether you use a bottle with an attached tray, a portable bowl, or a squirt / spray bottle, water is critical (but try not to re-use plastic bottles). Always have water with you for your dog.  They need to drink much more than we do, so just because you're not thirsty doesn't mean they're not. Also if you have a bottle that is your dog's bottle, many dogs will learn to show you when they want it.  And... drop ice cubes in the water - keeps it's colder and fresher.

5. Wet t-shirt competition time

Let your dogs swim if the opportunity arises.  But when you're not near swimming water, you can hold your own wet t-shirt competition. And as with human wet t-shirt competitions, it's the front that counts. Wet the dog from the bottom up - wetting their backs is useful, but keeping their chest and paws wet is key. The chest is closest to the organs and stops their organs overheating.

6. Clever ways to stay cool

Dogs will find all the cool places to keep cool - you will find them lying on the kitchen tiles, inside your shower cubicle, on shaded rock, etc.  But there are a few things you can do to help. Try these out: ice cubes in their water bowl; wet towel for them to lie on (with a few ice cubes underneath); switch on a fan; place an ice tray in front of the fan; make some iced treats for your dog; and of course, the good old plunge pool.

7. Cars (and caravans)

Do we need to say it? DO NOT LEAVE YOUR DOG IN THE CAR IN HOT WEATHER. And don't forget, caravans are no better! I'm not sure why people need reminding, but this is key. Cars heat up so fast, no matter whether you leave the window cracked open or not. Your dog will die in the car. Please, please, please - leave them at home in this heat.

Dog left in car in sweltering 30C heat is rescued

8. Signs of dehydration

The early signs of dehydration include: excessive panting; heavy breathing; excessive drool; lethargy; bloodshot eyes; and if you pull the skin, it may take a longer than normal to move back into place.  If you see any of these symptoms, get to the shade, give your dog water, and wet them down.  If it looks serious or simply for peace of mind, call your vet.

For more information visit us at www.longpaws.co.uk.