Must Have Protection For Your Dog In The Summer Heat
Must Have Protection For Your Dog In The Summer Heat
Exposure from the hot searing sun and hot surfaces are just a couple dangers that come along with summer. All dog breeds are susceptible to the intense heat of the summer sun. Longhaired dogs that still have some of their winter undercoat left and shorthaired dogs like the Whippet or Grey Hound can develop sunburn.
Longhaired dog should be thoroughly groomed preferably professionally using a deshedding shampoo and deshedding brushes while being blow-dried. FURminator has some of the best and most recommended products for removing a winter undercoat and excess hair.
Shorthaired dogs should not be left in direct sunlight for long periods without some kind of light dog coat to keep the intense sun off their skin. These dog coats are perfect for long walks on sunny days. Dog strollers with an overhead cover work the best for small dogs keeping them cool and rested.
The next greatest danger the summer heat can bring is dehydration. Fresh cool water is must for any trip that involves being outdoors on hot summer days. Dehydration for dogs has the same effects as they do for humans; excess strain on the heart, heatstroke, and seizures in the more severe cases.
There are plenty of portable dog water bottles available to pet parents you can take along to keep your dog hydrated. Some symptoms to look for are heavy excessive panting, dry gums, and confusion. If your dog exhibits these warning signs then it is time to take a break and get them some fresh water immediately.
Dogs relieve body heat in two ways panting and through their paws. Hot surfaces such as asphalt or hot sand can burn the pads so having a set of dog paw protectors is good idea if these types of surfaces are where you and your dog spend considerable time. There are mesh open-air dog paw protectors that work like water shoes do for humans.
Lastly, if you know the day is going to be exceptionally hot leave your dog indoors preferably in an air-conditioned environment. If you do not have air conditioning then a fan will do keeping the activity to a minimum. Never leave your dog in a closed-up vehicle. The temperatures can reach in excess of 200 degrees and will kill your dog.