How to Keep Your Dog Cool & Prevent Heatstroke
In warm weather, our pets can easily overheat and when body temperature raises too high, this is known as heatstroke and It is life threatening.
Some dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke, such as short nose breeds (like pugs) thick coats, puppies, senior, obese dogs or those with medical issues.
Unlike us, pets are unable to sweat – which means their cooling system isn’t as efficient as the human body and they feel the effects of heat much more strongly and quickly than we do.
As their guardian, it is our responsibility to help keep their body at safe temperature range and observe them closely in the heat.
In this article we will look at 6 ways you can keep your pet cool –> and how to spot the emergency signs of heatstroke.
Cold water has the immediate effects of cooling your dog down from inside his stomach.
But in summer, the water sitting in your dog’s bowl can quickly warm up, so ensure you refill frequently with fresh cold water and make sure it’s away from direct sunlight
If you are at all concerned about bloat in your dog, you can offer a little water with ice cubes in their bowl – to slow the rate they drink.
Frozen fruit and veg go down well, such as watermelon, brocolli or carrots, as does a frozen kong toy with their favourite filling.
Hey you could even treat them to some doggie ice-cream!
It really is best to walk your dog early morning or late at night to avoid the highest temperatures of the day.
If the temperature rises to the extreme, then it is UNSAFE to walk your dog at all.
You may worry that they need that walk –> but in the short term this will be fine – it is for their safety after all.
Heatstroke is LIFE THREATENING.
Keeping your dog’s fur wet is a great strategy for staying cool.
Alternatively you can offer a wet towel to lay on, a simple frozen water bottle to lay against or turn a hot water bottle into a cold water bottle!
Hey, if you could spare a pack of frozen peas, that also works well!
There are also cooling mats for dogs available to purchase if you would prefer.
Cold surfaces can be used to keep your dog comfortable on hot days.
Have you ever noticed when your dog is hot they will seek out a cooler surface to lay on rather than their normal comfy bed. This helps regulate their temperature by doing so.
In fact, many dogs like to dig holes to lie in on hot days, as the ground below is a lot cooler than the surface.
Naturally cold surfaces include laminate, tile and concrete floors or shaded lawn in your garden.
If your dog is a water furbaby than this one will go down well!
Just how we find the sea, pool (or even a cold shower!) a refreshing way to beat the heat, your dog will appreciate a dunk too.
Whether it’s a river, stream, pool, or a kids paddling pool in your garden, it is a great way to cool down fast (and a lot of fun too)
A few cautions of course such as supervise your dog around water –> especially deep water, and be aware of natural bodies of water that may contain deadly green algae. STAY SAFE.
Ahhhhhh….
A cooling fan. We all know how GOOD that feels right?
Get those fans on the go, particularly on those sticky, humid days or nights and allow some cool air to circulate.
If you dog is looking particularly hot and uncomfortable, you can direct it specifically that way. Just ensure your dog is able to move away freely when cool enough.
Prevention is always best here as heatstroke is deadly.
It’s important to be aware of the signs of heat stroke so you can take the necessary quick action to help your dog.
This checklist shows some main signs of heatstroke:
Dark red, purple or blue gums, excessive panting or drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, collapse, dry or sticky gums, lethargic, disorientated.
The sooner you can spot these signs, the better. Heatstroke can cause serious problems like organ failure, blood problems and more.
If you suspect your dog has heatstroke call your vet immediately. Every minute is important for your dog’s recovery.
In an emergency
On your way to the vets, try and lower your dog’s temperature SLOWLY
Pour LUKEWARM – COOL tap water over your dog’s body, particularly over areas where skin is exposed like belly, armpits and paw pads.
NEVER use ICE or COLD water on a dog showing signs of heatstroke. Going straight from one extreme temperature to the other will cause SHOCK.
Bring their temperature down gradually so their body can adapt accordingly.
Keep safe in the heat all.
Do you have any tips for keeping your dog cool in the summer heat? Share in the comments.