Beat the Heat: Simple and Effective Ways to Ensure Your Dog Stays Comfortable and Safe this Summer
As the scorching summer temperatures roll in, it’s essential to take extra care of our four-legged companions to protect them from heat-related discomfort and potential health risks. Dogs, just like humans, can be susceptible to heatstroke and dehydration, especially in the summer months.
In this blog post, we’ll explore ten effective and accessible tips to keep your beloved canine cool and content during the hot summer months.
Provide Plenty of Fresh Water
When the temperature rises, even dogs need to stay extra hydrated. Ensure they have a constant supply of fresh water in a shaded area, allowing them to quench their thirst whenever needed.
Avoid Walking Them at Midday When It’s the Hottest Outside
During the hottest parts of the day, it’s best to limit your dog’s outdoor walks. Surfaces such as pavement, asphalt and artificial grass can become searingly hot causing blisters or burns on their paw pads.
Provide Access to Shade
Dogs are self-regulating and don’t need much to stay cool. Dogs will naturally seek out shade if they are outdoors, and they may even dig a shallow hole in the dirt or grass to lay down in.
Cool & Wet Towels
Heat stroke is dangerous for dogs and is a medical emergency. If you notice your dog panting, drooling, or having difficulty breathing, bring them to a vet immediately. To help bring down their body temperature, wrap them in a cold, damp towel. This simple technique helps regulate their body temperature and provides instant relief on particularly hot days.
Never Leave Your Dog in the Car
A parked car can turn into an oven very quickly, even with the windows cracked. That’s why you should never leave your dog alone in a vehicle, as it is extremely dangerous to their health.
Limit Outdoor Activities in Hot Temperatures
While exercise is important, it’s crucial to adjust the intensity during summer. Opt for shorter walks or engage in indoor play to prevent overexertion. Hounds Town has an indoor facility that would be a great option if your dog has a lot of energy or even zoomies on the hotter days!
Regularly Groom Your Dog, But Don’t Shave Them
Contrary to popular belief, a dog’s coat helps regulate their body temperature. Regular grooming removes excess hair and prevents matting, enhancing air circulation. The investment of keeping your dog regularly well-groomed will keep them cool without sacrificing their natural insulation.
Don’t put clothes or shoes on dogs
Doing so has become popular, but dogs actually regulate their body temperature through their paws and their coats. Shoes or clothes prevent them from being able to do so naturally.
Set up a kiddie pool or a sprinkler for your dog to play in
Why should humans have all the water fun? Embrace the fun of water play by setting up a kiddie pool or sprinkler in your backyard. While many dogs don’t like to swim, shallow baby pools and sprinklers provide a fun and safe way for pups to cool off.
Plan The Best Day at Hounds Town
When the temperatures are scorching and you need to be away from home, consider enrolling your dog in dog daycare. At Hounds Town, we provide a safe and climate-controlled environment where your dog can stay cool, socialize with other pups, and enjoy supervised activities, even during the warmest summer months.
As responsible pet owners, it’s our duty to ensure our dogs stay cool and safe during the summer season. By implementing these ten tips, you can keep your furry friend happy, healthy, and comfortable all summer long.