Today’s forecast: a chance of doggie dehydration and heat stroke if you’re not careful!
While shade and access to water are the main essentials in how to keep your dog cool, it is important to keep your dog cool when it’s overcast but warm and humid.
Different dogs have different needs when battling the heat. Some breeds are more susceptible to overheating than others. Keep in mind that darker coats absorb more heat than lighter coats. Also, overweight dogs are at higher risk for dehydration.
So it’s important to keep your dog cool in summer.
Photo courtesy of Susan E Adams
Always watch your dog for signs of discomfort. A panting dog is too warm and trying to cool themselves. Remember: your dog’s temperature should always be about 38.5 degrees and it’s harder for them to cool themselves as they don’t sweat like we do.
Give your dog water, water and more water!
It’s important to always carry a bottle of water with you to help keep your dog cool in the heat. This is especially true if you plan on walking or going somewhere on a warm, humid day. So make sure you carry plenty of H20 whereever you with your pup.
Never leave your dog in the car
Not even for minute, even if the car feels cool to you from running the air conditioning.
While it seems like everyone would know and follow this golden rule of dog ownership, you’d be surprised how many times a ”quick trip” to the supermarket goes wrong.
While you plan to be fast, sometimes there are unforeseen delays and the temperature of your car changes rapidly even on cloudy days. It’s takes only 10 minutes on a 30 degree day for the temperature inside your car to soar to 39 degrees. And it takes only a short time in a hot car to cause permanent organ damage or death.
It’s just not worth the risk to your beloved family friend.
Go for a dip with your dog
Swimming with your dog is a fun way to bond and beat the heat. If you are concerned about your pup’s swimming skills, please check out our article on how to teach your dog to swim.
For more tips on keeping your dog cool, our favourite celebrity dog whisperer, Cesar Millan, has written an article we recommend you check out.
What fun, cool-down activities do you enjoy with your furry best friend? Please feel free to share your favourite cooling games with us!