Summer is around the corner so time for fun in the sun but beware as the heat can be dangerous. We take precautions with out summer classes and camps by providing shelters, cooling pools, and lots of water for hydration. Check out our summer programs www.MuttzWithMannerz.com
Here are some tips to have a safe summer with your dog when temperatures rise:
1. Provide Shade To Lessen The Risk of Heat Exhaustion
Summer is a great time to enjoy parks, beaches and country side trails with your dog. Make sure you protect them from high temperatures. Dogs can’t perspire like us and they release the heat by panting and perspire through the pads of their feet. Unfortunately this is less efficient than sweating and they can overheat when those temperatures rise leading to heat exhaustion. Always make sure they have access to shade and water hence why we have the gazebo’s up and the pools out during all our outdoor activities. If you have one of those short nose breeds like Pugs, Bulldogs, Boston Terriers or Boxers they are even more heat intolerant than other breeds.
2. Know The Signs of Heat Stroke And What To Do
Look for these signs which may be a sign of heat stroke:
- Excessive panting
- Bright red tongue and gums
- Vomiting
- Bloody diarrhea
- Unsteadiness
- Collapse
- Seizures
If you think that your pet is suffering from heatstroke, try to cool them down by wetting them with cool water and immediately take them your veterinarian. Without prompt treatment, heatstroke can be fatal.
3. Be Aware of Their Paws on Hot Surfaces
Your dog wants to please and be with you and loves their walks. They’ll try to keep up with you even when they are exhausted. Walking or running on concrete, asphalt or sand can be very hot and can burn a dog’s pads. I recommend exercising your pet early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the possibility of scorch their pads.
4. Hot cars can be DEADLY
You all know this. What many do not realize is how quickly a park car becomes dangerously hot. Even if the temperature is only 29 C and you leave your car windows down, your car can heat up to 39 C within 10 minutes. Be safe not sorry and leave your dog at home if they are not able to be at your side the entire time when the weather is warm. Why risk their life?
Have fun this summer with you dog and play it safe. We hope that you can join us for some of our fun programs.