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Help Fido Keep His Cool In Warm Weather

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When humans get hot, we sweat and our bodies use the moisture to cool us off. Dogs are not so lucky. When they get hot, they pant and that is not the most efficient means of cooling down an overheated body. That’s why we have to look out for our four-footed friends when the temperatures begin to rise.

Contrary to popular opinion the weather does not have to be scorching hot to pose a threat to your pet’s health. The warm days can be dangerous to pets, especially if they are left in a vehicle. Never, ever leave your dog in the car when it’s over 65-70 degrees outside. The car acts as an oven and could quickly cause your dog to dehydrate, have a heat stroke and even die. A panting dog produces heat and humidity every time they breathe out. This hot, damp air re-circulates in the small space inside a vehicle, making the conditions even worse.

Consider trimming or shaving the coat of a longer-haired pet when the weather is warm. They will feel much more comfortable and will be less likely to overheat. Make sure to leave enough hair on the animal to prevent sunburn.

You should never tie up your pet outside. If their leash gets tangled, they can cut themselves off from access to their water dish and shade. If you aren’t home to rescue them, the consequences can be fatal. Make sure your pet’s water bowls are the heavy kind they cannot tip over. A full bowl of water can become an empty one with the wrong nudge of a nose. Keep the water in your pet’s bowl as cool as possible. Leave the bowl in the shade to keep it from overheating and evaporating. Freeze water in small plastic butter dishes to make an extra large ice cube that will last for hours.

Some pet owners purchase kiddy pools and fill them up with a few inches of clean water. If your dog stays outside during the day, make sure he has a well-ventilated doghouse that is kept in the shade.

Certain dogs are more prone to heat stroke than others. They include:

Brachycephalic breeds

Breeds with short faces, such as pugs, Pekinese, mastiffs and boxers, are at higher risk of overheating since their shorter airways do not cool as quickly and efficiently as other breeds.

Dogs with dark or thick coats

Light colors reflect heat and dark colors absorb heat. Dark-colored dogs have a harder time dissipating heat than dogs with lighter coats.

Dogs who have respiratory problems

Any dog that is coughing, sneezing, wheezing, or has lung congestion will be at greater risk for heat stroke. Sick dogs, older dogs and puppies under six months are more likely to suffer heat-related maladies.

Overweight dogs

Overweight dogs have limited breathing capacity which contributes to heat stroke.

Dogs on medications

Certain types of medications can make dogs more susceptible to heat-related health problems.