Looking after Dogs in Hot Weather

While the heat of summer can be unpleasant for everybody

, for dogs it can be downright miserable. Many dogs are covered with long, dark hair which only exacerbates the effects of heat and humidity. Here are a few precautions you can take to help keep your furry friend cool and comfortable on even the most stifling summer days.

First, be sure to keep your dog out of excessive heat as much as possible. Dogs cannot cool themselves off by sweating the way humans can. Outside, dogs need a place where they can sit without having the hot sun beat down on them such as a covered patio or shaded side of the garden. Dog houses tend to keep the heat inside so be sure to find a shaded but airy spot for your dog to relax on hot days.

Never leave a dog in a parked car, even if you open the windows. The inside temperatures in a parked car can far exceed the outside temperatures in only a few short minutes.

Watch out for hot paving stones. If a surface is too hot for you to walk barefoot, there is a good chance it can burn your dog's paws and eventually lead to blisters and bleeding. Stick to grass and other cool surfaces when walking your dog on a hot day.

If your dog is going to be outside on a hot day, provide plenty of fresh drinking water. You may also want to set up a children's paddling pool for your dog to cool off if the heat gets unbearable.

Walk your dog in the morning or the evening on the hottest days of the year to avoid the peak temperatures. Exercise can cause dogs to overheat quickly and most will keep going until they collapse. Don't walk too far from home and make sure your dog stays hydrated.

Look for signs that your dog is overheated. Dogs often breathe faster and pant louder when they are too hot. You may also notice more drool than usual or bright red gums and tongue. If you notice any of these signs, cool your dog off immediately. Offer the dog water to drink and hose him down with water. You can also check your dog's temperature to make sure it is within an acceptable range. If conditions don't improve, bring your dog to a veterinarian immediately.

Looking after Dogs in Hot Weather

By: Neil Turner

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