Summertime, and the hot weather that comes with it, means we have to start hearing the “Don’t leave your dog in your car” reminders. It is odd that we have to keep hearing them, but it is important that we do. But its not the only peril dogs face in summer.
Hot pavement can destroy a dog’s pads in moments. We don’t notice hot pavement or cement because we have shoes on, so lean down and put your hand on the surface. If its too hot for your hand, its too hot for your dog. If you still want to walk in the summer with your dog in an urban area, there are shoes for them. They literally look like tennis or hiking shoes, with rubber compound soles and breathable tops. Once your dog gets used to the fit, when they see the boots come out, they will love it.
If you are exercising your dogs (and yourself) in hot weather, remember to hydrate. There are lots of water on the go devices for dogs, from collapsible bowls that let them share your water, to plastic, stainless steel or silicone units that hold water and form a bowl. Making sure you both stay hydrated is very important.
Staying cool is easier for us, we sweat. Dogs, not so much. But we can get them cooling vests or bandanas. Some utilize freezing overnight, other use the evaporative effect that we get from sweating. They come in all different sizes and styles to fit your activity. For in the yard, a simple kiddie pool (plastic, not inflatable) can be a dog’s best friend, and there are cooling mats that can draw the heat out of your pet.
Flat faced dogs, like Boston Terriers, Pugs, Frenchies, Bulldogs and the like are all more susceptible to heat issues, and extra care needs to be taken in their environments. Many cannot handle the same temperatures we only find uncomfortable, and can suffer heat exhaustion if not kept in air-conditioned comfort for most of their day.
Watch for heat exhaustion / heat stroke. The symptoms can include; restlessness, excessive panting, drooling, reddened gums, vomiting/diarrhea, lethargy, uncoordinated movement, being unresponsive, tremors or collapse. If you suspect your pet is experiencing heat stroke, act quickly. Move them to a cool place, wet them with cool water, and offer them cool water to drink. Do not use ice or cold water, it can shock them. Call your veterinarian right away for what you should do next.
If you are going out in a boat, make sure your pet has a PFD. Sure, dogs can swim, its called the dog paddle for a reason, but not all are great swimmers, and many can succumb quickly, especially if the water is cold. Pet Life Jackets not only afford visibility and buoyancy for your pet, but they usually have a handle on the back to assist in getting the pet back into the boat.
Grooming is also important to keep pets cool in summer. A properly groomed dog will be as cool in the summer as they are warm in the winter. Matted dog’s coats trap heat and moisture, and can become infected under the matts rapidly if you are not careful. Some people think that shaving off a dog for summer is a great idea, but again, in most cases, their coat is needed to protect them. Double coated dog’s coats can be ruined by shaving them, and they may never grow back the same, reducing their ability to keep the dog warm in winter. When you shave off a single coat dog “to the wood”, you have now exposed its skin to the elements, to being scratched more easily, and to sunburn.
A small amount of planning can prevent pain, suffering and worse. Please think about the weather through your pet’s eyes, and stay safe out there.