Keep your dog cool during hot weather

Dog playing in water

It has been 100 degrees plus here in my hometown for the last few weeks. When it gets that hot, people tend to stay inside their homes or other places with air conditioning or fans. However, many people think nothing of letting their dogs stay outside in the unbearable heat.

Dogs can get heat stroke, become sick or dehydrated, and even die when exposed to extreme heat, just like humans.  Keep your dogs inside whenever possible during hot weather.

If your dog must be outside, remember to provide a good supply of fresh drinking water.  Use a spill-proof bowl if possible.  Also, there should be a shady area of the yard where your dog can go to escape the sun.  If your dog is in a kennel, cage or run during the day, drape shade cloth or awning material over the top of the enclosure to provide shade.  Don’t use canvas or any material that does not provide ventilation. If there is electricity available, consider purchasing a fan to keep air circulating.

If possible, provide another water source as well.  A small kiddie pool with about an inch of water will allow your dog to lie in it and cool off if he or she gets overheated.

Whether you have an indoor or an outdoor dog, avoid strenuous exercise for your dog during extremely hot weather.  Try to walk your dog in the early morning or evening hours when the temperature is cooler.

Never leave your dog in a parked car. Even with the windows open or parked in the shade, a parked car can reach over 150 degrees Fahrenheit. You wouldn’t stay in a car that hot, your dog shouldn’t have to either.

Dogs release excess heat through panting, so if you see your pet panting more than normal, take action to cool him or her off.

Photo credit: zachd1_618 via flickr

August 14th, 2009 by Beth VanHoose | Posted in Dog Health | (0)