Thread: Keeping your dog cool

I know it is freezing at the moment but summer will be here before we know it. This is just some tips to keep your dog cool this summer.

[FONT=Georgia]How to Protect a Dog from the Heat[/FONT]


[FONT=Georgia]Introduction[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial]Just as we humans need to cool off during hot weather, so do canines. But unlike people, dogs can’t pack a lunch and head to the beach or take a dip in the pool whenever they please. They’re depending on us to keep them cool. And in doing so, we need to keep in mind that dogs are much more susceptible to heatstroke than humans…which is why it’s extremely important to take the proper measures to keep our beloved companions safe from the heat. [/FONT]
[FONT=Georgia]Instructions[/FONT]

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[FONT=Arial]Step One[/FONT]


[FONT=Arial]Make sure your dog has access to water at all times, especially during warmer weather. Always leave them with enough water in spill-proof or elevated bowls kept in a shady spot, and have a sufficient amount on hand if they’re traveling in the car. [/FONT]

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[FONT=Arial]Step Two[/FONT]

[FONT=Arial]Make sure the temperature is cool enough and there is good ventilation (i.e. air conditioning and/or ceiling fans) when your dog is left indoors. [/FONT]

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[FONT=Arial]Step Three[/FONT]



[FONT=Arial]Have a permanent place for your dog to go for shade if she will be spending any amount of time outdoors. Temperatures in the shade can be 10 to 15 degrees cooler than in the sun. Dog houses provide protection from the sun, but not the heat. Make sure your dog has protection from both. [/FONT]

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[FONT=Arial]Step Four[/FONT]

[FONT=Arial]Limit your dog’s outdoor time when it’s hot. And keep in mind, the hottest hours are between 10 and 4. [/FONT]
[FONT=Arial]Step Five[/FONT]

[FONT=Arial]Leave senior dogs, puppies under six months and ill dogs outside only briefly during hot weather. These dogs all have a higher sensitivity to heat. Also, many older dogs have arthritis and have difficulty rising. If they sleep in an area of the yard without shade, or if they are unable to get up out of the sun easily, heat stroke can strike quickly. [/FONT]

[FONT=Arial]Step Six[/FONT]

[FONT=Arial]Keep your dog from getting over-heated during exercise. Canines seem to care not whether it’s winter, spring, summer or autumn when it comes to chasing that ball. It’s up to you to monitor their playtime, especially during hot weather. [/FONT]

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[FONT=Arial]Step Seven[/FONT]

[FONT=Arial]Save walks on pavement for the early morning or evening hours. Hot asphalt can burn a dog's pads. A good way to check if it's too hot is to lay your hand or bare foot on the ground and if you can't keep it down for a few seconds, it's probably too hot for your dog. Also, bring along plenty of water if it will be a longer walk. [/FONT]

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[FONT=Arial]Step Eight[/FONT]


[FONT=Arial]Make sure there is sufficient airflow reaching your dog when riding in a car. Even if it's nice and cool for you up front, it may not be for your dog in back. It’s never a good idea to leave your dog in a car without air conditioning during hot weather. Even with the windows open, the car can still become hot enough to cause heat stroke within minutes. Not to mention there’s a chance your dog could get stolen. [/FONT]
[FONT=Georgia]Tips & Warnings[/FONT]
[FONT=Arial]A kiddies’ pool is a good alternative to your dog rolling around in the dirt to keep cool. [/FONT]
[FONT=Symbol]· [/FONT][FONT=Arial]Heatstroke can strike a dog very quickly and be fatal within a matter of minutes. Signs of heatstroke are heavy panting; gasping for air; heavy salivating; rapid heart rate; staggered walking; muscle tremors; seizures or convulsions; glazed eyes; noticeably darker tongue and gums. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, first wet him down with cool (not cold) water or cool compresses; then seek veterinary care as soon as possible. [/FONT]
[FONT=Symbol]· [/FONT][FONT=Arial]Dogs with dark coats, such as Rottweilers absorb heat quicker than lighter coated dogs. [/FONT]
[FONT=Symbol]· [/FONT][FONT=Arial]Never let your dog ride in an open pickup truck, especially during hot weather; truck beds are often dark colors that heat up quickly and are dangerous for them to ride in overall. [/FONT]