There’s nothing like frolicking under the summer sun with your dog. But it is up to you as your dogs’ owner & friend to keep them cool on hot days.
Dogs don’t have sweat gland and their only means of cooling off is panting. The heat can kill your dog faster than it will kill a person. So be a good owner & do everything you can to prevent your dog from getting overheated.
Here are a few keep tips to always bear in mind:
1. Shade
Always have a shaded area where your dog can retreat to and lay during a hot day out. Even an umbrella or a tree can make a huge difference.
When it is hot, limit your dog’s outdoor time. If in doubt, bring him in the house where it is cooler. Have a fan on the floor so he can lay in front of it
2. Hydration Is Key
Before heading out, always keep a LARGE bowl or bottle of clean cool water with you. It is best to bring 2 to 3 times more water than a dog can drink in a day, as it is always better to have to much water than not enough.
If you’re hanging out in the backyard, a great idea is to get a cheap kiddie pool at a discount store, fill it with water and let your dogs play in it. It’s a great way for them to cool off.
3. Never Leave Your Dog In The Car
If you must leave your dog in a car, do it only for a shot time. Tie your dog securely to a door handle & leave the window down all the way. Never leave your dog in a car for more than 10 minutes, and have a bowl of water so he can get a drink.
Nowadays, many cars have a function where you can leave the AC on while you’re away. When all is said and done, never forsake your dog’s safety in the name of convenience. These accidents happen, and they happen a lot easier than you think.
4. Treat Heat Stroke Properly
Believe it or not, your dog CAN get heat stroke. If you see signs of exhaustion and tiredness, take these following steps right away:
- Get him out of the sun.
- Wet your dog down any way you can as quickly as possible. Use a nearby hose, or even submerge your dog in a lake or stream.
- Get them some water to drink FAST.
- If you have any doubts at all, take the dog to the vet after you have initially cooled him down
