Summer is almost here and many dog owners are ready to get outside and take advantage of the beautiful Colorado sun. But as tempting as it can be to take your pooch along with you on your summer jaunts, remember that the heat can be dangerous for your dog.
Dogs are vulnerable to injuries and illnesses related to hot weather, such as heat stroke, sunburn and paw pad burns. The most dangerous condition is heat stroke, which can cause brain damage, organ failure, seizures, blindness, hemorrhaging, convulsions and even death.
Heat Exhaustion
Heat stroke and heat exhaustion are major threats to dogs. Dogs that are in the early stages of overheating are considered to have heat exhaustion. The symptoms of heat exhaustion include:
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Rapid panting
- Skin inside the ears will get red.
The best way to deal with heat exhaustion is to help the dog cool off as quickly as possible. Offer them fresh, cool water and get them to a cooler environment. A fan can be helpful. Dampen the skin with lukewarm water and allow them to air dry.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is extremely dangerous for dogs. Dogs don’t have the ability to sweat and panting doesn’t always keep them cool enough. If your dog’s temperature goes over 106⁰ you need to get them to a vet immediately. Signs of heatstroke include:
- Rapid panting
- Bright red tongue
- Red or pale gums
- Thick, sticky saliva
- Depression
- Weakness
- Dizziness
- Vomiting (sometimes with blood)
- Diarrhea
- Shock
- Coma
Although all dogs are at risk of overheating if they can’t cool themselves off, some dogs have a greater chance of having trouble in the heat. Dogs that have health problems – like heart disease, obesity, older age or breathing problems need to be watched closely in the heat. Certain breeds, like Pugs, Bulldogs, Boxers, Saint Bernards and Shih Tzu’s, have a shorter snout and can’t tolerate heat as well as other breeds.
How to Protect Your Dog from the Sun
Here 6 tips to protect your dog from overheating and heatstroke.
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Keep your dog hydrated
Dogs need an ample supply of cool water. Keep the water bowl in the shade so it stays cool. You can add ice to the water to cool it down. When you’re out and about, carry an extra bottle of water with you so you can offer it to your dog on a regular basis.
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Walk your dog when it’s cool outside
Remember that hot pavement or non-shaded hiking trails can burn your dog’s paws. Walk your dog when it’s cool outside and make sure he or she has access to shade when you’re resting.
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Avoid crowds
It’s almost always better to leave your dog at home when you’re going to an outdoor event like a festival or concert. The heat, noise and crowds can be taxing on your dog, causing anxiety and stress.
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Do your homework before shaving your dog
Some dog owners believe it’s best for their dog to shave off all their fur during the summer. In some cases, it is a good idea, but for other dogs, fur provides them with a layer of protection from the sun and biting insects. If your dog is a swimmer, their fur gets matted easily, or they spend a lot of time outside, it may make sense to get them shaved. Check with your vet before shaving your dog in the summer. Our expert groomer can also give you advice on whether you should shave your dog or not. Check out our grooming services here.
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Protect your dog from sunburn
Believe it or not, overexposure to UV rays can cause sunburn in dogs. While their fur does provide some level of protection, the bridge of the nose, ear tips, skin around the lips and other areas are highly susceptible to sun damage. There are specially formulated sunscreens for dog but it’s best to check with your vet to find the right product for your dog.
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Don’t leave your dog in a parked car
You should NEVER leave your dog in a parked car. A car can heat up very quickly even when it’s a relatively mild temperature outside. On a summer day, the temperature in a car can climb in a matter of minutes and spike more than 40 degrees in less than an hour.
Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy the outdoors with your dog. Just keep in mind that summer also brings the risk of overheating, heatstroke and burned paw pads. Don’t be afraid to enjoy outdoor activities with your dog – just be prepared to watch your dog closely and protect them from the danger of too much sun and heat.
Canine Campus offers a cool summer environment for your dog when you need to be away. We have industrial fans and break out kiddie pools for summer water fun. We also play with bubbles and other fun summer games involving ice cubes, when possible. Click here to contact us or call us at 719-448-9600 to learn more about our dog daycare, boarding and grooming services. We’d love to hear from you!
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