It’s getting warmer, and we’re not the only ones feeling the heat – our dogs are too. For example, did you know that a dog’s normal body temperature is about 101.5 degrees Fahrenheit, while ours is around 98.6? And that’s not even considering their fur coats!
Just like us, our dogs can suffer from heatstroke if they’re exposed to too much heat for too long. So how can you make sure your best friend stays cool and happy all summer long?
Here are five tips for keeping your dog happy in the heat that we’ve gathered to help you and your pup enjoy the summer worry-free:
1. Provide Plenty of Water and Shade
This one seems obvious, but it’s worth repeating. Ensure your dog always has access to fresh, cool water – even if you’re just going for a short walk around the block. And if you’re going to be out in the sun for more than a few minutes, bring along a portable water bowl and some shade for your pup to relax in.
Hydration is essential for your dog’s health which is why it’s important to provide plenty of water and shade for them during the summer months.
2. Avoid Hot Pavement
Hot pavement is one of the quickest ways to give your dog a painful burn. When the temperature outside is too hot to comfortably keep your hand on the pavement for more than a few seconds, it’s too hot for your dog to walk on.
If possible, stick to grassy areas or sidewalks in the shade. And if you must walk on hot pavement, try to put booties on your dog’s feet to protect them.
3. Don’t Leave Your Dog in the Car
It might seem like a good idea to take your dog with you on errands during the cooler hours of the day, but never leave them in the car. Cars heat up quickly, even when it doesn’t feel that hot outside and your dog can suffer from heatstroke very quickly.
It’s not uncommon for dogs to be left in hot cars for “just a minute” while their owner runs into the store, but those minutes can turn into hours if you get distracted. So it’s best to leave your pup at home where it’s cool and comfortable.
4. Keep an Eye on Heavy-Panted Dogs
Dogs pant to cool themselves down, but if your dog is panting excessively, it could be a sign of heatstroke. Other signs include restlessness, drooling, vomiting, and weakness. If you think your dog might be suffering from heatstroke, get them to a cool area immediately and contact your veterinarian.
5. Give Your Dog a Cool Bath
A cool bath is a great way to help your dog beat the heat. Just be sure not to use too much soap, as it can dry out their skin. If you’ve got a hose or sprinkler system, letting them run through the cool water is a fun way to keep them cool and entertained.
And if your dog is already wet from swimming or playing, there’s no need to bathe them again – just let them air dry.
Keep Your Dog Safe This Summer
As you can see, there are a number of things you can do to keep your dog happy and safe during the summer months. Just use your common sense and be aware of the potential dangers that hot weather can pose to your pup.
With a little planning and preparation, you can ensure your dog enjoys the summer just as much as you do.
