From Our Friends At

The Dog Days of Summer aren’t here yet, but the temperatures are rising and hitting some highs. With that comes the seasonal concerns for your pooch such as ticks and fleas (administer preventive medication), the infamous ear infections (dry ears after swimming), or potential alarming situations with wildlife (this one can sometimes be hard to prevent), etc. But one of the most dangerous, life-threatening concerns is one that we can prevent from happening – heat stroke.    

Tips For When It’s Hot

Whenever temperatures are at an extreme, heat stroke is possible. Unlike humans, our animals can’t get themselves what they need to stay cool, so it is our responsibility to keep them safe from any possible danger.

How To Keep Your Dog Cool

• When outside temperature gets much above 80 degrees, particularly if it is combined with high humidity, restrict the amount of exercise.  Do not force your dog to job with you or exercise unduly on hot days.
• NEVER leave your dog alone in a car, even with the windows cracked, on a very hot sunny day. 
• Do not leave your dog in a hot room, or outdoors directly in the sun without access to shade.
• Ensure your dog has plenty of fresh, cold water and a cool, shaded spot away from the heat and sun.
• Exercise in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the hottest points of the day.
• Be aware that pavement can burn the pads of their feet on a hot sunny day.  If it is too hot for you to place a bare hand on the surface for 10 seconds it is too hot for your dog!
• Spray with cool water periodically throughout the day or give them access to a doggie pool where the water is always nice and cool.
• And hopefully, you have a safe yard allowing your pup to roam safely and securely while being able to reach all of their summer y necessities.

Remember, if you’re hot they’re hot!

Dogs that are left unable to escape from the heat are in danger. If you see a dog suffering in the heat, please call an emergency number immediately, and if you can take action, do so right away. No animal deserves to suffer.

Know Which Breeds are Predisposed to Heat Stroke

• Chow Chow
• Bulldog
• French Bulldog
• French Mastiff
• Greyhound
• Bullmastiff
• Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
• Pug
• English Springer Spaniel
• Golden Retriever

Signs Of Heat Stroke:

•  Heavy panting and excessive drooling
• Collapsing or tiredness
• Difficulty breathing
• Bright red, gray, purple, or bluish gums
• Collapsing or fatigue
•  Increased heart rate
• Elevated body temperature
• Lack of coordination
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Dehydration
• Lack of urine
• Muscle tremors
• Lethargy or weakness
• Dizziness

Actions To Take:

• If your dog shows symptoms shown above seek veterinary care and emergency care if your vet office is closed.
• Move the dog immediately to an air-conditioned environment.
• Place cool, wet cloths or towels on your dog’s neck, armpits & behind his hind legs. You can also gently wet his ears and paws with the cool water. If he is willing to drink, offer him cold water, but do not force him.
• If you do not have an air-conditioned room, put a fan directly on them

For More Safety Tips

Thank you to our friends at Syracuse Dog Fence for the inspiration and much of the content of this post!