For many pets, summer is a time for long walks, cool naps and fun trips. But it can also be a time that our furbabies are susceptible to extreme heat and over exposure to rising temperatures outside.
Fortunately, there are some things the Whisker Bones Team came up with that you can do to help ensure your dog’s safety and well-being during the hottest summer month:
Hydration is Key
Since dogs are not able to sweat like humans, they have to cool off by panting. Whenever your dog is excessively dehydrated they can become pale and lethargic and you’ll notice that they drool a lot. Other signs of dehydration include increased heart and respiratory rate, mild weakness stupor and maybe even collapse. One of the ways that you can avoid this is by providing your pet with lots of fresh, clean drinking water. You can also prevent your dog from becoming dehydrated by keeping him out of the sun or in a shady area. Try taking an Olly Bottle or collapsible bowl with you.
Walk During the Cooler Hours of the Day
If you plan to walk fido, try to take him for a walk during the coolest parts of the day – early morning or late evening and keep activity to a minimum. Because heat rises, the ground can get pretty hot in the summer. So if you must walk them outside during the warmer parts of the day consider investing in a pair of doggie boots or paw protector as they will help keep your pet cool, especially since they absorb and release heat through their feet.
Wet Towels on Feet
Another way to help your dog beat the heat is by keeping his or her feet and belly cool by spraying them with water. Wet towels will also work well when laid on your pet’s feet since dog’s cool from the bottom up.
Avoid Ingestion of Harmful Products
Beware of garden insecticides and flea and tick products as the summer heats up. When ingested, they could be poisonous to pets. In the case of accidental ingestion, call your vet or the Animal Poison Control Center.
Only Give Dogs Appropriate Foods
With all of the summer picnics and holiday BBQ’s, it’s easy to forget that some foods and even alcoholic beverages can be poisonous to dogs as well.
For more tips on how to keep your dog cool this summer, contact Whisker Bones Supply Co.