Wherever you live in Australia, we bet itās going to be hot this week. Or at least itās going to get hot soon. As it heats up, spare a thought for your pals in fur coats. Dogs deal with heat differently to humans. While we cool down by sweating (or cranking the AC and chugging a jumbo Slurpee), things are a bit trickier for them.
Dogs only have sweat glands in their paw pads, so they rely on panting to provide 80% of their cooling power. Breathing heavily like that brings cool air to the moist tissue in their mouths and lungs where it evaporates to reduce heat. Hey, itās not pretty but it works. Although when itās really scorching, they need a bit of extra help be happy, comfortable, and healthy.
Get Hydrated, Stay Hydrated
Like most living things, water is key to keeping your dog safe as the temperature rises. Make sure you set extra water bowls out around your house and yard. Not only will they be drinking more, but you want to make sure there are spares if one is accidentally knocked over during the day. You can also add some ice to the water to keep things extra cool.
If your dog is tied up at any point, make sure there are always several water sources within easy reach. As well as making sure they have continual shade at any time of dayāor just bring them inside!
If you head out with them, donāt forget to take a bowl and water bottle to keep them hydrated.
Dogs have differing opinions on getting wet, but consider filling a small pool for them to splash around in. Or, if you know they like water, you can also wet their neck with the hose to cool off.
Go Easy On Exercise
Most dogs are always down for a walk, but rethink their routine if itās very hot: Take them for a walk in the early morning, or after the sun goes down.
If you need to take them out in the day be conscious of how hot the ground can be. Burning concrete and bitumen can give the poor guys pad burn. Before you start, feel the sidewalk. If you canāt comfortably keep your hand there for 30 seconds itās not suitable for them. Consider taking them to the park, find a dirt walking path, or just direct them to the nature strip.
Your pet will probably be feeling a bit lethargic in the heatārelatableāso give them space if they want to chill out more than usual. Donāt push them to play or run around too much, even if they want to, and make sure any kids in your household also understand they need extra downtime.
If you’re spending time outside, watch for sunburn. Especially if your pet is fair skinned or has a pink nose. Most pet stores and vets sell pet-friendly sunscreen.
Freeze!
Youāre not the only one who loves an icy-pole. Dogs deserve a cool treat on a hot day too. Rather than giving them a bite of your Frosty Fruit, pop some treats and toys in the freezer for them to munch on.
You can also put an ice pack or frozen bottle in their bed to help them cool down at night; as well as freezing a few towels to leave lying around giving them lots of cool spots to relax during the day.
Be VERY Careful In Cars
It goes without saying, but NEVER leave your dog in the car. Even if itās not super hot outside, cars can reach fatal temperatures within minutes. Donāt risk it. Take them inside with you or tie them up in the shade near lots of drinking water. Or better yet, consider leaving them at home. Even driving around with you could be too hot for a lot of pets.
If you do need to take them on a drive, remember their water and bowl, take a sun-shield for the windows (a towel is a good option), and donāt skimp on the air-con.
Not All Breeds Feel Heat the Same
While the above advice applies to all dogs, different breeds handle hot weather differently. If your dog is a Brachycephalic breed (like pugs and bulldogs) their shorter noses that can make it harder to pant and cool down. Similarly, overweight, out of shape, old, or unwell dogs might also struggle to regulate temperature, so keep an extra close eye on them.
To Shave or Not to Shave
Itās easy to assume that hair = heat. But thatās not always the case. For some dogs, their thick hair can act as an insulator to keep them cool and protect them from the sun. So before you whip out the clippers chat to a professional groomer about your dogās needs.
One thing all dogs benefit from is regular brushing. This will remove excess hair and keep their skin healthy in the heat.
When You Need to Go to the Vet
Follow the above advice and chances are your dog will sail through summer. But itās very important to keep watch for signs of heatstroke or other health complications. If your dog is struggling to breath, vomits, staggers, has diarrhoea, seizures, muscle tremors, or collapses something isnāt right and you should contact your vet immediately.
Want to Help Other Animals?
During summer, dogs and other animals are often impacted by bush fires. The RSPCA does a lot of good work protecting, evacuating, and helping pets, livestock, and wildlife in threatened or affected areas.
If you have the means, consider making a donation to help them keep up the great work.
Looking for more ways to have a great summer with your dog?
The Best Dog-friendly Camping Spots This Summer
