Dogs & Hot Weather

• Limit walks to early mornings or late at night. These are the cooler parts of the day, this will make the walk more comfortable for both you and your dog. Consider a simple cooling collar to help keep your dog cool
• The 5 Second Rule – Place the back of your hand on the pavement. If you cannot hold it for five seconds, it’s too hot to walk your dog.
• Light-coloured dogs are vulnerable to sunburn, particularly on their ears, noses and sparsely haired areas so make sure shade is easily accessible for your dog when outside (The best prevention is to keep your dog indoors when the sun is strongest, between 11.00am and 3.00pm)
• Make sure your dog always has a good supply of drinking water, in a weighted bowl that can’t be knocked over.
• Dogs cool from the belly up. Make sure they have a cool floor to lay on as this is their quickest way to cool down – if you don’t have a cold floor or are travelling in the car then Cooling Mats are essential
• NEVER leave your dog (or any pet) alone in a car, even with the windows open
• Swimming is excellent exercise for dogs but remember that not all dogs like to swim. We see a LOT of Bullies, Frenchies and Pugs here at Dogaholic and most simply CANNOT SWIM. So be extra vigilant around swimming pools or deep water

TOP TIP – A quick squirt of lemon or a drink Coca-Cola can help break down excessive saliva and help breathing

Heatstroke

Heatstroke is one of the biggest threats in hot weather so knowing the symptoms could be a lifesaver!

Symptoms

• Panting
• Dehydration
• Excessive drooling
• Reddened gums
• Production of only small amounts of urine or no urine
• Rapid heart rate
• Vomiting blood
• Passage of blood in the bowel movement or stool
• Black, tarry stools

Remember – Prevention is always better than a cure