Precautions for Canine Care during the Summer months
**Protecting Your Dog from Summer Heat: Essential Tips for Dog Owners**
As the summer months approach, it's crucial to be aware of the potential dangers that heat can pose to our furry friends. By recognising the early signs of heat-related conditions, taking immediate action, and employing preventive measures, you can ensure your dog stays safe and healthy during the warmer months.
**Identifying Heat-Related Conditions**
Early signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke in dogs include excessive panting, drooling, rapid breathing, bright red gums, weakness, and lethargy. More severe symptoms may progress to vomiting, diarrrhea, staggering, collapse, seizures, dry or pale gums, glazed eyes, and dehydration signs such as dry gums, sunken eyes, lethargy, and loss of skin elasticity. High-risk dogs include flat-faced breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs), overweight dogs, seniors, puppies, dogs with heart or breathing issues, and those with thick or dark coats.
**Handling Heat-Related Conditions**
If heat stroke is suspected, act quickly. Move your dog to a shaded or air-conditioned area right away, offer small amounts of cool (not cold) water frequently, and begin gradual cooling by wetting their paws, belly, ears, and using cool damp towels on armpits and neck. Use fans to assist evaporation, but avoid using ice or very cold water, as this can cause shock or blood vessel constriction. Seek veterinary care promptly, even if the dog appears to recover, because internal damage may still be occurring.
**Preventing Heat-Related Conditions**
Avoid walking or playing during peak heat hours (10 am to 4 pm). Never leave dogs in parked cars, even briefly, as temperatures rise quickly. Always provide access to fresh water and shade. Use cooling aids like cooling vests, mats, or fans. Keep walks short and gentle on hot days. Encourage hydration with water available throughout the day, including portable water bottles during walks, and consider offering ice cubes as treats or adding water to food.
Caution is advised between 75-85°F, especially for dogs with thick coats or short snouts, and outdoor activity should be limited when temperatures exceed 85°F. To protect dogs from sunburn, limit sun exposure during peak hours and provide ample shade when outdoors. Puppies have more sensitive paw pads and dehydrate quickly, making supervised, short bursts of playtime in shaded areas the safest choice. Pet-safe sunscreen can be used for high-risk dogs or longer outings.
By closely monitoring your dog for signs of overheating, ensuring proper hydration, and taking prompt cooling and veterinary steps if heat-related illness occurs, you can protect your dog from the dangers of summer heat effectively. Aim for walks in the early morning or late evening when surfaces have cooled, and outdoor temperatures under 75°F are safe for most dogs.
[1] American Kennel Club. (n.d.). Heatstroke in dogs. Retrieved from https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/heatstroke-in-dogs/ [2] American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. (n.d.). Heatstroke. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/heatstroke [3] Veterinary Partner. (n.d.). Heatstroke in dogs. Retrieved from https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/heatstroke-in-dogs [4] Dr. Cassibry. (n.d.). Keeping dogs safe during summer. Retrieved from https://www.petmd.com/dog/care/keeping-dogs-safe-during-summer [5] PetMD. (n.d.). Heatstroke in dogs. Retrieved from https://www.petmd.com/dog/conditions/cardiovascular/c_dg_heat_stroke
- To keep your dog healthy during the summer, understand that high temperatures can lead to heat-related conditions such as heatstroke, which can be dangerous for dogs. By following a science-backed approach and employing preventive measures, you can ensure your dog is safe and well in warmer months.
- Incorporating health-and-wellness practices for your dog can help keep them cool during the summer. This includes providing shade and access to fresh water, using cooling aids like mats or vests, and avoiding exercise during peak heat hours, according to various research and expert resources.
