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We all know dogs are cool but do we really know how to keep them cooled off in the summer heat? In the US, during the summer heat, temperatures can be higher than 100 degrees. Some “hot states” include Arizona, Texas, Florida, Nevada, and California, that even humans struggle to cool off in. It’s important for us humans to find shade, cool air, water, etc to be safe and to avoid heat exhaustion and strokes. If we ourselves want to be safe in the heat, why wouldn’t we want our loved companion animals to stay safe in the heat as well? *Cars are specifically dangerous, see this chart below.*

CarHeatDangersChart

https://www.co.price.wi.us/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=587&ARC=1701

There are many things dog parents can do during the summer to keep them safe and cool. According to the CDPH Hot Weather Pet Safety Guide, dogs that stay in prolonged heat are at risk of 

  • Dehydration
  • Heat Exhaustion
  • Life threatening Heatstroke

*Note* These heatstrokes can cause organ damage, seizures, and death.

SIGNS OF OVERHEATING

  • Drooling excessively
  • Heavy consistent panting
  • Collapse
  • Vomiting/Diarrhea 
  • Lethargy/weakness
  • Diziness 
  • fainting/ unconscious 

To prevent your dog from overheating, there are many steps you can take. First, is to keep them inside as much as possible. If the temperature is 84 degrees and above, it is considered high risk for heatstroke. Pet MD categorizes temperature ranges: 75-84: be cautious and keep walks short and light. 85-89: High Risk, avoid exercise and restrict outside activity. 90-100: Dangerous-keep inside.

AVOID PAVEMENT

Another thing to look out for is the temperature of pavement. In the heat, blacktop, roads and concrete get very hot and can burn your dog’s paws. Burns can cause pain, redness and tenderness in paw pads. The recommended temperature you should keep your dog off is 85 degrees. You can also test it yourself. Place your hand on the pavement for 7 seconds, if you cannot, that means it is too hot for your furry friend. All of this information is according to Pet MD so it is very reliable. 

HOW TO TREAT

  • Bring your companion inside with air conditioning or that has shade
  • Place water out for them to drink, but not ice cold
  • Damp a wet rag and place on their body, feet and ears
  • Coconut oil on paw pads

WHAT TO AVOID

  • DO NOT GIVE THEM ICE PACK OR COLD WATER
  • DO NOT COVER YOUR DOG (TRAPS THE HEAT)
  • DO NOT TREAT PAW PADS WITH RUBBING ALOCHOL

SEE A VET IF

  • Vomiting/diarrhea 
  • Heavy panting
  • Unconscious/collapse 
  • Seizures 
  • dizziness

*Source- RSPCA*

https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal/summer/dogs

IMPORTANCE

Although summertime is enjoyable, we must take these steps to make sure it is enjoyable for your dogs as well. We take care of ourselves in the heat, it is only fair we take care of our furry loved ones as well. They deserve to be safe and be comfortable in the summer season as well. So in order to do that, be sure to follow these methods and watch out for risk behaviors listed in this article.

Remember to  always have your dog’s collar and ID Tag on them with updated information. This way if at any time your companion animal gets lost or loose; a vet, shelter or good samaritan can contact you. 

Incorporating these methods can help ensure your dogs will have a cool and safe summer.