These tips can help you ensure your furry friend stays safe from high temperatures.
Keeping your pets healthy and safe during the summer months needs due diligence. The warm weather can be enjoyable for both pets and their owners, but it also presents some challenges that can affect your pet’s health. Here are some tips for keeping your pet healthy and safe during the summer.
As a veterinarian, it is essential to keep our furry friends healthy and safe during the summer. Dogs are particularly susceptible to the warm weather, and it is essential to take some extra precautions to keep them comfortable and healthy. Here are some dog-specific tips for keeping your pet healthy and safe during the summer:
1. Hydration
Dogs, just like humans, need to stay hydrated during the summer months. Make sure your dog always has access to fresh, clean water. When taking your dog outside for a walk, bring water and a portable bowl for your dog to drink from. If you notice that your dog is drinking less water than usual or seems lethargic or weak, contact your veterinarian immediately as it could be a sign of dehydration.
2. Keep your dog cool
Dogs can quickly become overheated and suffer from heatstroke during the summer months. Make sure your dog has access to cool areas, whether it be air conditioning at home or shade when outside. Avoid taking your dog out during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 11 am and 4 pm. If you are taking your dog on a walk or hike, consider bringing a cooling vest or bandana to help regulate their body temperature.
3. Protection from the sun
Dogs with light-colored fur, thin fur, or exposed skin areas are at risk for sunburn, just like humans. Apply pet-safe sunscreen to your dog’s nose, ears, and any other exposed areas before heading outside. You can find sunscreen specifically formulated for dogs at your local pet store or online. Never use sunscreen intended for human use on your dog, as it can be toxic and cause illness.
4. Avoid hot pavement
Hot pavement can burn your dog’s paws, causing discomfort and pain. Before taking your dog on a walk, touch the pavement with your hand to make sure it is not too hot. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your dog’s paws. Consider taking your dog for walks in the grass or on dirt paths instead of pavement.
5. Watch for signs of overheating
Dogs can’t sweat like humans, so they rely on panting to cool themselves down. However, panting may not always be enough to keep them cool. Watch for signs of overheating, including excessive panting, drooling, agitation, weakness, vomiting, and collapse. If you notice any of these symptoms, move your dog to a cool area immediately and offer them water. Contact your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Make sure to provide your dog with plenty of water and shade, avoid hot pavement, and watch for signs of overheating. With these tips, you and your furry friend can enjoy the warm weather safely and comfortably.
AUTHOR PROFILE
Dr. Omer Rashid earned his veterinary degree in 2002 from University of Agriculture Faisalabad, and quickly followed that with a Master’s degree in Parasitology. He worked for several years in veterinary practice with small animals, as well as horses and livestock. He studied advanced pharmacology at Charles Darwin University in Australia, and discovered his love for writing while working as a science writer for a research company with clients such as Harvard, Stanford and Cambridge universities. Along the way, Dr. Rashid developed an interest in integrative veterinary health, and he joined Redstone Media Group as Associate Editor of IVC Journal and veterinary content developer in 2022.
