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5 Ways to Keep Your Dog Safe in the Heat

By June 23, 2016September 13th, 2019No Comments

They don’t call it the Dog Days of Summer for no reason. Summer heat is already upon us and it is only June!  While I am not a huge fan of it being 95 degrees with 65+% humidity my sweet little doggie, Lucy is really not a fan.  As soon as the temp spikes she is no longer allowed to run errands with me and this is simply heartbreaking for her.

To make matters worse, she has a rather thick fur coat she wears. When it is this hot out I am even afraid of walking her.  Heat exhaustion for doggies can lead to death.  I dug around the Internet a little to help me compile a list of do’s and don’ts for dogs in the heat and here are some things you need to know if you have 4 legged family members:

  1. As much as I think everyone knows you don’t leave a dog in the car in the heat I have still witnessed people doing just that. Even with the windows cracked and or down it is too hot in a car for a dog-period-end of sentence.
  2. Know the symptoms of overheating in pets. If you suspect your dog is suffering from overheating the dog needs to see a vet if you are unable to get him or her cooled down.  Here are the things you want to watch for: excessive panting or difficulty breathing, increased heart and respiratory rate, drooling, mild weakness, stupor or even collapse. Symptoms can also include seizures, bloody diarrhea and vomit along with an elevated body temperature of over 104 degrees.
  3. Don’t leave your dog alone around a pool. It is true most dogs can swim instinctively but not all dogs are good swimmers. Pools can be very difficult to get out of and your pet could drown trying to get out. Dogs should not drink the water in the pool because of the chemicals.
  4. Did you know you should not shave your dog? It is okay to get a nice summer trim but the layers of fur actually protect your dog from overheating and sunburn.
  5. Protect your 4 legged family member from fireworks. Don’t use them around dogs and make sure your dog has a safe place that is sheltered from the noise. Dogs typically do not like the loud noises.

This great read from the ASPCA provided a few additional tips I didn’t mention but you should read if you have a dog!

Click Here to Read the ASPCA Article

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