As summer draws near, we may expect long, sunny days and a clear sky. During this time of year, many people and their pets enjoy more outside activities, but it’s important to keep in mind that dogs and hot weather don’t necessarily go together. It’s crucial to learn how to keep your pets cool during the summer.
Given that many human meals are harmful to dogs, even backyard barbecues and summer picnics can rapidly turn disastrous for our four-legged pals. So what actions can you do to ensure the safety of a man’s best friend?
- Supply Enough Water
Dehydration can occur suddenly and have devastating repercussions. It’s crucial to comprehend how to keep pets from being dehydrated. Always keep clean, fresh water available, especially when the weather is very hot or muggy. Early indicators of canine dehydration include:
- Skin elasticity loss
- decreased energy
- Gum and mouth aridity
- wet nose
- a lot of panting
A somewhat dehydrated dog needs to be given little amount of water every few minutes. Giving an animal too much water too soon could make it vomit, which would just make the animal more dehydrated.
Dehydration’s more severe warning symptoms could include:
- diarrhoea, loss of appetite, and vomiting
- dry, sunk-in eyes
- Inability to coordinate
- Weakness
- Shivering, a weak pulse or a rapid heartbeat are all indications of shock.
Extremely dehydrated dogs require prompt medical care and frequently need to be rehydrated using intravenous fluids. As soon as you see the first indications of severe dehydration, contact your veterinarian.
- Recognize the Symptoms of Dog Hyperthermia
Due to dogs’ inability to regulate their body temperatures as effectively as people, overheating and dehydration are frequently related. Cooling down in hot dogs is aided by panting and vasodilation of the ears and face. You must install an underground fence for their safety.
- Keep Your Dog’s Fur Uncut
In the summer, many well-meaning dog owners naturally think that their dogs will be warmer with more fur, so they are motivated to shave their animals to give them relief. However, this is usually not a good idea.
Single-coated, short-haired dogs are often more tolerant of heat by nature, while double-coated breeds like Australian shepherds, Shelties, and Samoyeds have dual-purpose fur that keeps them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Discover why shaving won’t keep your dog cool.
- Never Depart From Your Vehicle With Your Pet Unattended
In the summer months, the temperature inside your car can quickly rise above 100 degrees Fahrenheit, even if the windows are cracked and you park in a shaded area. If you are unable to bring your dog inside with you at each location, drop them off at home before you finish your errands or leave them there right away.
- Be Vigilant When Exercising and Playing Outside in the Heat
To prevent your dog from overdoing it during exercise, it’s crucial to keep this in mind. Choose cooler hours of the day, such as early in the morning or late at night, or think about swimming or running through the sprinklers as an alternative.
Given that not all dogs have good swimming abilities, it’s crucial to watch them around swimming pools and other bodies of water. Remember your dog’s paws if you’re exercising on hot pavement, asphalt, or sand.