Keeping your dog cool in hot weather is not only a way to show you care ... it could also be a life-saver.
It’s a little known fact that dogs can suffer from heatstroke if temperatures rise above 30c .... Yeah who knew?
So knowing how to keep your dog cool is a great way to prevent them getting sick.
You see dogs can’t sweat like us humans. They keep cool by panting which of course is normal but in really hot weather it’s time to keep an eye out for early signs of heatstroke.
So if your dog shows any of the following signs it's a time to consider getting some professional help in:
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Panting heavily .... yes dogs often pant after exercising but in hot weather you need to keep a careful eye on how long this lasts after their walk ends.
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Dribbling more than usual
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Foaming at the mouth ...... that needs immediate attention
But prevention is better than cure so here’s our
10 TIPS FOR KEEPING YOUR DOG COOL & SAFE IN HOT WEATHER
1. Make sure they’ve always got access to clean water to avoid dehydration
2. Check regularly that their bowls aren’t tipped over and consider using a plastic bowl rather than a metal one which conducts heat
3. Freeze a Kong containing water & treats for them
4. Always take clean water with you on a walk … they’re bound to get hotter and thirstier when scampering around.
5. Invest in a cool mat for them to lie on. At worst soak a towel in water and place it in the freezer for a while and place it in the shade for your dog to lie on. It’s not going to last for long but it will help.
6. Turn the sprinklers on… most dogs love this ❤️
7. Half fill a kid's paddling pool with cool water for them to lie in
8. A summer clip and good grooming to get rid of loose hair will help to reduce the heat for them. Would you like to run around in the summer with a fur coat on?
9. Try to provide shade and your dog will gravitate to this naturally. If no shade is available in your garden – improvise …. create artificial shade …. putting a double duvet cover or a sheet over a rotary washing line provides cover!
10. I know we all have routines in our daily lives but make time to walk your dog at the coolest times of the day. Early mornings or late evenings are best. They’ll thank you for it.
SO IN A NUTSHELL …..
Just a quick reminder …. dogs should never be left alone in vehicles …. even for short periods …. even with the windows open.
Temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly and your dog won’t be able to cope with the rising temperature.
Enjoy the summer with your pooch ❤️
