As temperatures rise during the summer months, keeping your dog safe and comfortable is more important than ever. Dogs can suffer from heat-related illnesses just like humans, so it’s essential to take preventative steps to make sure they stay safe!
Here are ten things you can do to keep your dog safe this summer.
1. Provide plenty of fresh water
Hydration is critical for your dog’s health, especially in hot weather. Ensure that your dog has constant access to fresh, cool water.
Consider carrying a portable water bowl during walks and outings so your dog can drink regularly. One of our favorite ways to carry water is the Springer Water bottle.
2. Avoid the midday heat
Schedule walks during the cooler parts of the day, typically in the early morning or late evening. The intense midday sun can overheat your dog quickly, leading to heat exhaustion or even heatstroke.
3. Invest in cooling gear
Products like cooling hats, vests, and bandanas can help keep your dog comfortable during hot weather. These items use moisture and the natural process of evaporation to lower your dog’s body temperature.
We love the products from Canada Pooch which are available from Chewy.
4. Provide shade and shelter
If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors, make sure they have access to shaded areas where they can escape the sun. Note that most doghouses do not offer relief from heat—in fact, they can trap heat—so ensure there are cooler, shaded spots available.
We also like elevated beds like this one from K&H, one of the best and most affordable bed manufacturers out there in our opinion:
5. Never leave your dog in the car
Even with the windows down, a parked car can become a furnace in mere minutes and can be fatal to your dog. Leaving a dog in a car in hot weather is one of the most high-risk situations for heat-related illness. We repeat: Opening a window is NOT ENOUGH to keep your dog cool inside of a car. Always take your dog with you, or leave them with a trusted person inside the car with the AC running.
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6. Keep your home cool
During extreme heat, keep your indoor spaces cool with air conditioning or fans, especially if you’re not home during the day. This can be crucial for your dog’s comfort and safety.
You can also invest in a dog cooling mat, train your dog to lay or sit in place on the mat when you come in from a warm walk, and they will understand in no time!
7. Limit exercise
On very hot days, limit your dog’s exercise to prevent overheating. Pay attention to your dog’s signals; if they seem exhausted, slow down or stop to rest.
8. Mind the asphalt
Your dog’s paws are sensitive to hot surfaces like asphalt, which can burn them. Place your hand on the pavement for a few seconds to test if it’s too hot for your dog. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Try doing shorter walks in grassy areas.
9. Watch for signs of heatstroke
Recognize the signs of heatstroke in your dog, which include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, uncoordinated movements, vomiting, and even collapse. If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cooler environment immediately and contact your veterinarian.
10. Consider a haircut
If your dog has long hair — like that of a poodle or poodle mix — consider giving them a trim for the summer months to help them stay cool. There are a few important things to note here though:
- Never shave your dog down to the skin, as their coat also provides protection from the sun.
- Double-coated dogs, like huskies, should not be shaved. Their undercoat and outercoat work to both keep them warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
- When in doubt, consult your veterinarian or professional groomer before giving your pup any kind of haircut.
Stay safe this summer!
By implementing these tips, you can help ensure that your dog enjoys a safe, cool, and enjoyable summer. Remember, if it’s too hot for you, it’s likely too hot for your pup. Always prioritize your dog’s needs during the heat of the summer to keep them healthy and happy.