Hot Weather Tips for your Dog

  • Tips & Advice

How to keep your dog cool in this heat?

It is HOT this summer! Extreme heat can pose many dangers for your pup. Dogs don't sweat like us and it can be really difficult for them to cool down, especially on a hot summer day. Heatstroke can and will affect all types of dogs, but those most at risk are flat-faced breeds, long-haired breeds, overweight dogs, and very young or very old dogs. Once you recognize the symptoms of heatstroke, it is imperative that you get your dog to cool down immediately, and then get in touch with us or the emergency vet hospital. Heatstroke is not something to take lightly as it can cause severe long-term damage, or can even be fatal.

Avoid an emergency situation with these tips:

Provide open access to:

  • Clean and fresh water
  • Shade and cool surfaces

What else can you do?

  • Exercise in the early morning or late evening when it is cooler outside
  • Wet their paws, this is a way for your dog to cool off!
  • Don't let playful pets over-exert themselves in the heat.
  • Freeze a dog chew or make a dog-friendly popsicle for them!
  • Add ice cubes to their water bowls
  • Give them a dog-friendly pool to splash around in. 

What you should NOT do?

  • Never walk during the mid-day, especially in the open sun.
  • You can trim longer-haired dogs, but don't shave their coats. 
  • Never leave your pets in a parked car.
  • Avoid sidewalks and pavement, even during the evening because it can still be hot.
  • Don't rely on a fan, because they don't cool off pets as effectively as they do people.

Signs of Heat Exposure:

  • Excessive panting
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Increased heart rate
  • Drooling
  • Bloody Diarrhea
  • Mild weakness
  • Collapse & seizures
  • Vomiting

 

Remember that heat exhaustion needs immediate medical care. It doesn't take long for your dog to overheat and can happen in as little as five minutes. Please cool down your dog and call us right away if your dog overheats.