Summertime brings sunshine and outdoor activities for people as well as their pets. But it also brings extreme heat and temperatures. Our canines benefit from and appreciate the summer sun. Pet owners should exercise care during these warm days to avoid dangerous summer temperatures.
Let’s talk about the dangers of high temperatures for our pets, how to spot the signs of heat-related problems in dogs, the best way to keep your canine excellent and cool down quickly, and a few products to keep your dog from becoming overheated at the beginning.
Dogs and Summer Heat: 3 Dangers to Be Aware Of
Warm weather and heat can be dangerous for dogs, especially if pet owners do not take the appropriate steps or become aware of warning signs. Here are some summer-related dangers that dogs should keep an eye on:
Overheating and Heat Stroke
A dog typically loses heat via panting or the process of evaporative cooling. When the air outside flows over humid airways, the warm water evaporates, and the heat goes away. This depends on a healthy breath and hydration to circulate the air rapidly. When it is humid, the system becomes less efficient because evaporating is not as efficient. Dogs can also lose heat by conducting and lying down or sitting on cool surfaces to help draw their body temperature down.
Because no cooling mechanisms are as efficient as sweating, dogs can overheat rapidly and quickly, mainly when it is hot and humid. When temperatures drop to 70 degrees, the dog’s temperature could rise to dangerous levels in a short time and result in the condition known as heat stroke. The term “heat stroke” is also used to refer to heat exhaustion as a grave health emergency that needs swift medical treatment and support.
Dehydration
The dogs are also susceptible to dehydration during their summer activities. In addition, they lose water due to normal bodily activities, exercise, and panting, but they also require moisture to evaporate before it can work. The evaporation of moisture results in more water being lost. The longer dogs play outside, the more frequently they sweat in the air, and the higher the chance they will be dehydrated.
Burns
Burns to the pads of your pet is a different danger for dogs in the summer. The surface temperature can be 40-60 degrees hotter than the ambient temperature. Concrete and asphalt temperatures can exceed 125 degrees in direct sunlight at temperatures as low as 77°. It is hot enough to cause a fire in the pads of dogs’ paws and paws, mainly when they walk over it for longer than a short period.
The dogs can also get a sunburn, particularly those with white or light coats. A sunscreen that is safe for dogs must be applied to sun-exposed areas.
Signs of Heat-Related Problems in Dogs
Pet owners must recognize the signs of heatstroke to take appropriate measures to decrease the temperature of their pet and even ensure their pet’s survival.
The signs that your dog may be having trouble coping in the hot weather or developing heat exhaustion are:
* Excessive panting
Refusing to stand/walk
* Bright or dark red gums and tongue
* Stumbling
* Collapse
* Bloody diarrhea
* Vomiting
* Seizures
If you spot these symptoms, you should immediately take steps to calm your dog (keep checking for helpful advice) and locate an animal clinic as quickly as you can.
Many body systems and essential internal organs, like kidneys, the liver, and the brain, can be affected in varying ways by extreme temperature rise. Certain complications, such as clotting disorders, can not be apparent for 48 hours after the incident. It is recommended that the vet check your pet’s health – even if they’re no longer showing signs of heatstroke – to ensure that no issues are ignored, and a care plan is established.
How to Cool a Dog Down Quickly
If you observe any indications of the signs of heat stroke in your dog or they appear to be too hot, try these tips to keep them cool:
1. Make use of cool (but not ice-cold) water by submerging them in an in-ground pool or bath or simply washing them.
Second step 2: Point the fan at your pet to increase airflow and help in reducing heat.
Third step 3. Provide your pet with cold water to drink or Ice cubes for the pet to chew and lick.
September 4 • Wet their ears and paws to assist in losing heat.
5. 5: Find a shaded and cool spot where they can lay.
Sixth Step If you can get them into an air-conditioned building or vehicle.
A few of the things you must never perform include:
Make sure to cover a dog’s body using a damp towel. Covering a pet with a wet towel is a good idea because it holds heat in its body.
Double-coated breeds, such as German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers or Huskies, since their coat helps keep them cool.
How to Keep a Dog Cool in the Summer
The best way to ensure that you keep your dog safe during summer is not to allow your dog to overheat at the beginning. Be sure to follow these top tips for your dog to have a safe summertime.
Keep to the morning and evening hours. Avoid playing outside or exercising during the peak hours of daylight. Instead, make the most of cooler temperatures during the early morning or late evening.
Pay attention to your humidity. Keep an eye on the humidity index, and stay clear of long walks or playing during humid days.
Make sure you have water on hand. Always have plenty of fresh water in your fridge to prevent dehydration.
Do not keep your dog in hot vehicles. Never leave your pet in a car for any time, as the car’s temperature can rise to dangerous levels very quickly.
Search for shades. Choose shady paths, trails, fields, or trails whenever possible.
Explore water-based games. Opt for water activities that will keep your dog cool, even if only installing a sprinkler in your yard for the dog to play through or setting up an outdoor pet pool to swim in.
Pause to take breaks. Make sure to take frequent breaks on hot days to allow your dog to take a break and cool off.
They can be fanned off. Include a fan in their crate or in their environment to increase airflow.
Explore cooling bed. Use cooling mats or beds with raised mesh to help dogs shed heat via conduction.
Be aware of brachycephalic breeds. Mainly be mindful of dogs with flat faces (i.e. Frenchies, pugs, etc. ), older dogs, and those who are overweight since they can suffer heatstroke more quickly than other breeds.
Summer Must-Haves for Dogs
Alongside taking the proper measures to prevent your pet from overheating, numerous products simplify this process for pet owners.
These are my most recommended product suggestions to keep your pet cool and safe while out enjoying the summer sun.
- You can carry a pet water bottle like the MalsiPree Pet Water Bottle.
- Wear a dog’s life jacket for swimmers who aren’t experienced, such as this Outward Hound Granby Splash Dog Life Jacket.
- Offer a cooling pad, such as The pet shop’s The Green Cooling Mat, to lay on and enjoy a relaxing.
- Ensure they wear cooling items such as the ALL for Paws Chill Out Ice Bandana and The Ruffle Wear Swamp Cooler Evaporative Dog Cooling Vest.
- Make popsicles by using molds for dog treats made from silicone along with puppy Scoops dog ice Cream Mix.
- Utilize an AC extender, such as an air vent extender from Noggle, to ensure your pet gets an incredible blast from the back of your car.
- Utilize a crate for more airflow, such as the 5-inch Treva Pet Crate Fan.
- Install a doggy pool in your backyard by using this Lunaoo Foldable Dog Pet Pool.
Pet parents are certainly not limited by “dog-only” cooling products. An old-fashioned shade canopy and backyard sprinkler are other items you can add to your toolbox to keep your furry friend cool during the summer months.
The summer months don’t mean your dog must stay in the air conditioning all day. It is a time when pet owners need to be more vigilant and cautious as they enjoy the sunshine. This article can assist you and your favorite pet in having a wonderful and secure summer!
