Once again it’s summer and the days are hot! If you feel hot just imagine wearing a heavy fur coat in this weather. High heat is hard on your dog so please take appropriate measures to make sure your dog is safe this summer.
Be sure to play with your dog and take your walks in the cooler parts of the day. I know I walk my dog extra in the early morning and then in the evening. If your dog has to be outside during the day please make sure that they have adequate shade that they can be in during the hottest parts of the day as well as plenty of water. Please don’t leave your dog in a hot car—if they need to be left make sure the car is in shade or the windows are down enough that fresh air can get inside the vehicle. In Colorado there is a law now that allows bystanders to break car windows to rescue children or pets left in a hot car. So if you don’t want your windows broken please protect your pet.
Pay extra attention to your dog in the hot days of summer—heat exhaustion or heat stroke can be fatal to your pet. If your dog seems lethargic, very weak or begins to vomit after play time or a walk in summer get them to your vet immediately. These are signs of heat exhaustion. Though it can seem like a quick fix to put your pet into ice water —don’t. This can actually make them retain heat. Most vets recommend to bring your pet in out of the sun, give them cool water and place a fan nearby. Seek vet attention if this doesn’t seem to help your hot pet.
Also make sure when walking that you don’t let them burn their feet on hot asphalt. Allows them to walk on the grass instead of the sidewalk if it’s too hot. If you don’t like the heat on your bare feat most likely your pet won’t either.
Take precautions with your pet this summer so that they’ll be strong and healthy for years to come.