7 Ways To Keep Your Dog Safe In Hot Weather

7 Ways To Keep Your Dog Safe In Hot Weather

If it is hot in your part of the Country, here are some tips to keep your pooch safe

1.Walking

It is best to avoid walking your dog if the weather is hot as dogs are not able to cope in the heat as well as humans can.

Even a slightly warm day can lead dogs to overheating, especially if they’re exercising. Consider if your dog may be safer going for a gentle walk very early or late in the evening when the temperature has significantly reduced or do some stimulating activities at home. And if you live close to water, try and take them so they can cool off but be aware of dangerous currents.

2.Water

Water is essential for your dog all year round, especially on a hot day. If you're out and about with your dog, make sure you always have a fresh water for them

3.Look out

Dogs suffer with heatstroke when they overheat. Heatstroke develops when a dog can't reduce their body temperature and it can be fatal. This can happen not just when it’s hot but also in warm temperatures. It is important to know how to avoid it and be aware of the signs as it requires urgent veterinary treatment.

Any dog can develop heatstroke, but overweight, young, elderly, flat-faced, giant-breed, and thick-coated dogs are particularly at risk, even from just sitting out in hot weather.

Signs of heatstroke include:

  • Heavy panting
  • Lethargy
  • Confusuion or loss of coordination
  • Drooling or foaming at the mouth
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Shaking or weakness
  • Seizures

If you think your dog has heatstroke, you need to ACT FAST. Make sure you contact your vet immediately. While contacting the vets:

  • Move the dog to a shaded and cool area
  • Keep them calm and still
  • Put them on top of a cool wet towel or place them in the breeze of a fan
  • Allow the dog to drink small amounts of cool water
  • Pour cool water over the dog’s feet, ears and head. Never use ice or very cold water as this can cause shock
  • Gradually start to move cool water over their body but not too much that they start shivering.
  • If possible, continue cooling your dog on the way to your vet

4.Hot surfaces

Surfaces which heat up in the sun, such as tarmac or sand, can be painful for your dog’s paws. If in doubt, check for yourself. If it feels too hot for you to touch, the chances are your dog's thinking the same, so try to stick to grassy or shaded areas instead.

5.Never leave dogs in cars

Leaving a dog alone in a hot car can be fatal – even parked in the shade with the windows open, dogs can become distressed and uncomfortable and develop heat stroke very quickly. Make sure you always have a plan, so your dog isn't left alone in the car or any other enclosed spaces.

6.Fit & Healthy

It's important to help your dog stay as fit and healthy as possible all year round, whatever that looks like for them. During warmer weather it's especially important to help them maintain a healthy weight.

Your dog will likely be less active when it's hot, so it can be a good idea to adjust the amount of food you give them to reflect how much energy they are using up. It’s a great opportunity to practice basic tricks and training indoors where it is cooler to keep up your great relationship and help keep your dog’s brain active.

If your dog does need to lose weight see some tips here

7.Grooming

Regular grooming or clipping will keep your dog's coat clean, free of knots, and can even help them keep cool. Speak to a professional groomer as they will know what’s best for your dog and their specific coat.

 

 

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