Summer is here!
Well, it was for a while any way………
Whilst most people bask in the warm summer weather, for dogs it isn’t always so enjoyable. By continuing to read on, we will share our suggestions of how to be fully prepared for the warmer weather.
By following some of these easy steps on keeping your dog cool and comfortable, the summer is sure to be enjoyed by all.
Did you know ….as the air temperature rises, so does the ground temperature, and depending on the surface it can raise more than you’d imagine. Luckily, in the UK temperatures are rarely over 25 degrees. But we do get some days reaching 30 degree and higher, look at summer last year (2020).
So be aware that Tarmac and hard surfaces can be significantly hotter than the air temperature. Therefor an air temperature of 25 degrees means that tarmac can be over 50 degrees!
Skin damage can occur in only 60 seconds at 50 degrees. A short walk on the pavement or down the road can be bad news for your dog. So, before you walk your dog. Place your hand on the ground to feel the temperature. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s feet.
Knowing how to keep dogs cool in the heat is important and easier for some breeds than others. Obviously the thicker their coat is or the more hair they have the harder it is.
Here are 7 easy tips to help keep dogs cool in the summer heat
1. Walk early or late in the day to avoid the sun at its hottest.
Remember that the heat can linger on into the evenings when it’s been very hot outside. This means tarmac is still too hot for walks and can cause cracked or dry dog paws. To help prevent rough and irritated paws. Try to walk on grass or woodland paths if possible.
2. Look out for signs of dehydration
Dogs can’t regulate their body heat like humans do. So they are more susceptible to heatstroke. If you notice your dog doing the following things, they are suffering with dehydration:
-They are panting more to try and keep themselves cool
-An overheated dog will also drool excessively and become lethargic
-Often their eyes will become bloodshot and may appear a little pale.
3. Keep them hydrated
Different dogs will have different needs when dealing with the heat. Darker dog coats will absorb more heat than lighter coats. Also heavier and overweight dogs will also be at increased risk during hot weather. If you are out walking you should always take a doggy water bottle and bowl (if not all in one) with you. Offer water frequently.
4. Help your dog to stay cool
Move their bed to a shady spot in the garden or place their bed in the coolest room. So they can relax in comfort. A child’s paddling pool is a great way to help dogs keep their cool. It can be used for them to drink from and have a quick wallow or paddle! You could try laying a wet towel outside in the shade for them to lie on. As the water evaporates it cools your dog down.
5. Dogs cool from the bottom up!
In case you didn’t know? Instead of laying a wet towel over your dog. its best to lay it on the ground for them to lie on. Or spray their feet and tummy with a water mist. A simple non expensive way to keep your dog cool that they’ll enjoy too!
6. Never leave your dog in a parked car!
It’s saddening that every year this still happens. It’s extremely easy for them to overheat in the car. Even when it’s “not that hot” outside, and for the worse to happen. You may think that in mildly warm temperatures that keeping dogs cool isn’t as important, but it is. Don’t let your dog suffer and there over heating become fatal!
7. Let your dog guide you
Your dog doesn’t read or watch the weather forecast so they won’t understand why they’re not getting their usual long walks. Let your dog experience the weather briefly. They will soon realise it’s too hot. The same as when they let you know it’s too cold or wet! We know our dogs can be reluctant to go out when it rains and it’s usually the same when it’s hot!