Most dogs, whether fluffy or sleek, can stay healthy and active in the heat if they have plenty of access to drinking water and shade. Certain dog breeds, though, are more tolerant of hotter climates—and all of our friends could use a little more TLC in the summer.
If the temperature begins to rise, here are some suggestions to keep your dog cool:
Provide an ice pack or a damp cloth for lying on.
Fill the water dish with ice cubes.
Provide access to a shallow, cool-water paddling pool.
By draping tarpaulin, fabric, or using a shading screen, you can provide access to cool shade.
Take a foldable water dish with you on your walks.
Provide frozen treats such a carrots or peanut butter on a lick matt that you’ve popped in the freezer for a few hours.
To protect their toes, they should avoid walking on hot concrete.
Playtime, exercise, and walks are best done in the early morning or late evening.
Dogs with thin, short coats, such as beagles, chihuahuas, and Dalmatians, fare best in the heat. As the temperature rises, dogs with short noses and thick coats become less comfortable.
Basenjis and Pharaoh hounds, to mention a few, are dog breeds that originated in hot areas and were born ready to face the heat. When it comes to beating the heat, high-speed hounds employed for coursing and racing, largely from the sight hound group, are all inherently gifted. Their long noses help to chill the air, while their large lungs and hearts help to circulate oxygen throughout their bodies.
While most dogs can endure the hot summer months with proper hydration and environment management, certain dogs will just have a more difficult time.
Because of their shorter nasal passages, all snub-nosed or brachycephalic dogs have a more difficult time controlling their temperatures. Temperatures are more sensitive in bulldogs, pugs, and Boston terriers.
Giant breed dogs, as well as aged, obese, or diabetic animals, require special care during a heat wave.
Heatstroke in dogs warning signs to get to a vet ASAP:
- Raised temperature (38.6° Celsius is normal)
- Rapid breathing and panting
- Excess salivation and thickened saliva
- Fatigue or depression
- Muscle tremors
- Staggering
If you notice any of these symptoms, bring your dog indoors and consult your veterinarian.
Wrap your dog in cold wet cloths, paying specific attention to the underarm/belly/groin regions. During the cooling procedure, a fan can be used on the dog.
Check your dog’s temperature every five minutes and stop the cooling treatment when it reaches 39.4° C. To avoid shock, avoid cooling too quickly. Allow your dog access to cool water, but do not force him to drink. If dehydration is a concern, your veterinarian may prescribe IV fluids.
Dehydration in dogs warning signs:
- Sunken eyes
- Lethargy
- Dry mouth
- Depression
- Gently pinch a fold of skin at the top of the neck. Is it slow to snap back?
Not all indications of dehydration are obvious. A trip to the clinic is recommended if you feel your dog is dehydrated.
Provide clean, cool water. To promote drinking, experiment with different bowls, adding a splash of carrot juice, chicken broth, or bits of a favourite fruit to one of them. Some dogs like to put a few ice cubes in their water bowl.
Shaving your dog
If your dog has a double coat, such as mastiffs, spitz, or terriers, you may be tempted to shave off all that fuzz in the hopes of keeping them cool. Before you reach for the razor, keep in mind that there may be some negatives to this option, such as a sudden lack of insulation and diminished sun protection.
Furthermore, because longer guard hairs grow at a different rate,
Do not leave your dog in a car on hot days
Even if the windows are cracked, pets can perish in hot cars. What appears to be a nice day outside will not appear to be so mild inside the car, therefore never leave your dog in the car while it is warm outdoors. Temperatures inside the compact, insulated compartment can quickly rise. According to the RSPCA, when it’s 22°C outside, a car may become an unpleasant 47°C in one hour. These temperatures can be hazardous to your dogs health very quickly.
The following ideas are a fantastic place to start if you want your pet to be happy and healthy all year, but if you want even more grooming advice tailored to your breed, contact us and speak to our friendly team of groomers.
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