Summer Safety: How to Ensure Your Dog Stays Cool and Comfortable
Posted by volhard dog nutrition on Jul 17th 2024
Sunshine, BBQs, and outdoor adventures! Summer is a time of both fun and challenges for our furry friends. When temperatures rise, it's crucial to take extra measures to keep your dog cool and comfortable.
From hydration hacks to cooling activities, we'll share practical tips and creative solutions to ensure your pup enjoys the summer as much as you do.
Make this summer season a safe and unforgettable experience for your four-legged companion with Volhard!
3 Summer Activities for Dogs and How to Prepare for Them
Hiking and Nature Walks
Hiking and nature walks are fantastic ways to keep your dog active and engaged during summer. However, hot weather poses health risks, so preparation is vital to your dog's health and safety:
- Early Morning Adventures: Plan your hikes in the early morning to avoid the day's peak heat. This will help keep your dog cool and prevent overheating.
- Hydration: Always carry enough cool water for you and your dog. Adding ice cubes to your dog's water bottle will help keep them cool longer.
- Snacks on the Go: Pack summer foods for dogs, such as watermelon or cucumber slices. They have cooling properties and can keep your dog hydrated. Avoid feeding foods with added sugars or artificial flavors.
- Protective Gear: Consider dog booties to protect your dog's paws against hot surfaces and a cooling vest or bandana to help regulate their body temperature.
- Shorter Walks: Opt for shorter, more frequent walks rather than long periods of exertion to prevent exhaustion and heatstroke.
Beach Trips
Taking your dog to the beach can be a refreshing escape from the summer heat. The combination of water and open space offers plenty of fun but also requires careful planning:
- Shaded Areas: Set up a shaded area with an umbrella or beach tent where your dog can take breaks from the sun.
- Cool Water: Keep fresh, cool water on hand to prevent dehydration. Bringing a portable water bottle is a convenient way to avoid sand in your dog's bowl.
- Safe Treats: Pack frozen treats for a tasty treat that helps cool your dog down.
- Check the Sand: Hot sand can burn your dog's paws. Test it with your hand and provide a mat for your dog to lie on.
Backyard Playtime
Backyard playtime is a great way to keep your dog entertained and active without leaving home. You can create a fun and safe environment for your pet with a few simple adjustments:
- Cooling Stations: Set up kiddie pools filled with cool water where your dog can splash around.
- Safe Toys: Provide toys that can be filled with frozen treats, offering a cooling chew option to keep them entertained.
3 Creative Ways to Hydrate Your Dog in Summer
Frozen Treats
You can easily make frozen treats at home by blending water with your dog's favorite fruits or adding plain yogurt. Pour the mixture into ice cube trays or silicone molds and freeze. Some great options include blueberries, cucumber, and homemade broth.
Summer Fruits
Most dogs love a variety of summer fruits like watermelon and strawberries. Their high water content makes them an excellent choice for hydrating your dog. Remember to remove any seeds and rinds, as these can harm dogs.
Electrolyte Treats
Electrolyte treats can help replenish your dog's lost minerals and keep them hydrated during the summer heat. They help maintain your dog's electrolyte balance, ensuring they stay hydrated and energetic even on the hottest days.
4 Ways to Protect Your Dog from Sun and Heat Exposure
Cooling Mats
Cooling mats provide an excellent way to help your dog beat the heat. They are designed to stay cool for extended periods, offering your dog a comfortable, relaxing place.
Cooling mats are typically filled with a gel that absorbs your dog's body heat and dissipates it, providing a cooling effect. They are also portable, making them perfect for home or on the go.
Cooling Bandanas and Vests
Cooling bandanas and vests are practical accessories that can make a significant difference in keeping your dog cool. They are designed to be soaked in water before being worn. The evaporative cooling effect helps to lower your dog's body temperature.
Cooling bandanas can be tied around your dog's neck, while vests cover a larger body area, providing more extensive cooling. They are handy for active dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors.
Sunscreen
Like humans, dogs, especially those with short or thin coats, light fur, or exposed skin, can get sunburned.
Applying dog-safe sunscreen to vulnerable areas such as the nose, ears, and belly can protect your dog from harmful UV rays. Use sunscreen specifically formulated for dogs, as human sunscreen can contain toxic ingredients for pets. Regular application, especially during prolonged outdoor activities, can prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural and protective barrier against the sun's harmful rays, providing a layer of moisture and protection. Its soothing properties can help alleviate minor sunburns and skin irritation.
Rub a small amount of coconut oil onto your dog's paws before and after heading outside.
4 Dog Breeds That Are More Susceptible to Heat
- Bulldogs: English and French Bulldogs are known for their distinctive short snouts and wrinkled faces. These brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds have more difficulty breathing and cooling down, making them particularly vulnerable to heat stroke. Their compact airway structure limits their ability to pant effectively.
- Pugs: Pugs, another brachycephalic breed, also struggle with regulating their body heat through panting. Their breathing can become labored quickly in high temperatures.
- Boxers: Boxers are active and energetic dogs, making them more susceptible to overheating, especially during vigorous activities in the heat. Their short coats offer little protection against the sun, and their brachycephalic nature adds to their risk of heat-related problems.
- Shih Tzus: Shih Tzus are small, long-haired dogs that can quickly become overheated. Their thick, double-layered coats can trap heat, and their short noses make it difficult for them to cool down efficiently.
What Are the Signs of Heat Stroke?
Early signs of heat stroke in dogs include:
- Drooling
- Restlessness
- Excessive panting
- Increased heart rate
As the condition progresses, symptoms can worsen to include:
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Red or pale gums
- Collapse
How to Act Quickly to Prevent Heat-Related Illness
If you notice any signs of heat stroke, acting quickly is crucial:
- Move your dog to a cooler area immediately, preferably in an air-conditioned or shaded spot with good airflow.
- Offer small amounts of cool water, but do not force them to drink too much at once. You can also wet their body with cool (not cold) water, focusing on the paws, belly, and head.
- While taking these steps, contact your veterinarian for further advice, as professional medical intervention may be necessary.
Keep Your Dog Cool and Comfortable This Summer with Volhard!
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