With the warmer days approaching we are often thinking of ways to keep ourselves cool. We begin wearing lighter clothes, seeking shade, and avoiding the sun during peak hours, to decrease the effects and the changes in temperature for our bodies. But what about our pets? Are we taking the necessary precautions to keep our furry friends safe and cool during these, soon to be, extra warm days? Recognizing and being alert to your dog’s needs and any changes are important to their health and safety too. Below are a few tips that can keep your dog safe through the “dog days” of summer.

  1. If your dog loves his walk try to keep them happy by walking during the cooler hours of the day and evening, this will decrease the chance of heat exhaustion and limit the potential of walking on hot surfaces such as asphalt, cemented sidewalks, and sand. According to the Animal Humane society these surfaces can reach temperatures as high as 125 degrees with the air temperature still under 80 degrees.
  2. Keeping plenty of fresh water may seem like a normal task but a dog can lap up a bowl of water and be looking for more if they are feeling dehydrated. Better to have more than one bowl available and check it often.
  3. Some dogs like to cool off in the swimming pool, enjoying a dip with the family. Remember that the chlorine can affect a dog’s skin like the drying and fading it does to our skin, hair, and our swimsuits. Also, if a dog swallows too much chlorine they can have some stomach issues. Pay attention to how comfortable your dog is in the water and remember to rinse them off when they leave the pool.
  4. Heat strokes are serious for dogs, like humans. Leaving your pet in the car for even 5 minutes can be fatal. The temperature rises and your pet may feel trapped, become over excited and increase their chances of harm. Rather, to leave your pet at home for less stress and burden on their bodies.
  5. Speaking of heat stroke, knowing the signs to look for can help keep your pet from reaching a point of serious circumstances. Excessive panting, a red tongue and gums, as well as lethargy, and seizure like activity can all be signs that your pet is in danger. Move them to a cooler area and start to cool your pet with water from wet towels. Next call the vet and help them with remaining calm. 

These are important actions you can take to keep your dog safe and healthy throughout the summer months. We know how important our pets are, because they are family too!