Keeping Your Furry Friend Cool: Essential Tips for Caring for Your Dog in Hot Weather
Summer can be a wonderful time for outdoor adventures with your furry friend, but it's important to remember that dogs are susceptible to heat-related issues just like humans. As temperatures rise, so do the risks of dehydration, heatstroke, and sunburn for your canine companion. Ensuring your dog stays cool and comfortable during hot weather is crucial for their health and well-being. In this guide, we’ll share essential tips and strategies to help you care for your dog during the scorching summer months, so you both can enjoy the season safely and happily.
Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
Kong Water Bottle
From £11.99
Ensure your dog always has access to fresh, cool water. Hydration is key to ensure they do not over heat which can lead to a heatstroke, and keep your dogs body temperature regulated.
2. Never Leave Your Dog in a Parked Car
Cars can quickly become dangerously hot, even if the windows are left slightly open. Even leaving your dog for a short time in the car can be dangerous as they could suffer from a heatstroke.
3. Avoid Peak Heat Hours
Walking your dog early in the morning or late in the evening can lower the risk of overheating as it tends to be cooler at these times. Avoid walking them in midday as the heat can be more intense.
4. Use Cooling Mats or Vests
AFP Cooling Mat
M - £12.99
L - £29.99
Cooling products are great to help regulate your dogs body temperature. Vests can be used when out on a walk or the matts can be used in your home or car.
5. Protect Their Paws
The pavement can become extremely hot which could burn your dogs paws. Check the floor with your hands before walking with your dog, and if its very hot, consider investing in some booties for them.
Signs of Heatstroke
Signs of heatstroke can include:
Tiredness
Heavy panting (even when not exercising )
Dribbling
Confusion
Being sick (can include blood)
Collapsing
No walking in a straight line
Fitting
What to do if your dog is showing signs of heatstroke?
If your dog starts showing signs of heatstroke, it's crucial to act quickly. Heatstroke can be life-threatening, so immediate care is essential. Here are some tips on what you can do:
Contact Your Veterinarian:
Call your vet or an emergency animal clinic right away, even if your dog seems to be recovering.
2. Move Your Dog to a Cool Area:
Get your dog out of the heat and into a shaded or air-conditioned space as quickly as possible.
3. Offer Water:
Provide your dog with cool (not ice-cold) water to drink. Let them drink small amounts at a time to prevent vomiting.
4. Cool Them Down:
Use cool, damp towels or cloths to gently cool your dog’s body, focusing on the neck, armpits, and groin areas. You can also use a fan to help with cooling.
Avoid using ice or very cold water.
Do You Think Your Dog is Showing Signs of Heatstroke?
Please contact your vet immediately and seek their professional advice.
