Keeping Your Dog Cool When the Temperatures Rise

How rising temperatures affects our pets

Temperatures of 90 degrees Fahrenheit or hotter, can have serious and even fatal consequences for dogs. Call your vet immediately if you notice that your dog is panting excessively, is sluggish or unresponsive, and has a red, enlarged tongue — these are all signs of overheating or heatstroke.

Even better, take steps to keep your dog cool and safe in the heat.

• Never leave an animal unattended in a parked car, even with the windows cracked open. Every year, hundreds of pets die this way. The temperature inside a parked car or truck can get dangerous fast, rising 20 degrees in just 10 minutes, and by 30 degrees in 20 minutes.
• Keep your dog inside as much as possible when it’s hot outside. If your dog must be outdoors, be sure to provide a shaded area and consider filling a kiddie pool for doggie cool-downs.
• Be sure your dog stays hydrated.
• Try to schedule walks during cooler times of day (early morning or late evening). Bring water for your dog. If it will get dark during your walk, don’t forget a flashlight!
• Make sure your dog’s paws aren’t getting burnt on hot surfaces such as sidewalks, asphalt, sand and metal.
• Light-coated dogs, or those with lighter skin around their eyes, nose and ears, can get sunburned! Wipe on a little dog-safe sunblock for protection.
• If you’re thinking about giving your dog a summer shave, ask a vet or groomer first. Some dog breeds actually stay cooler by keeping their coats, which provide natural insulation. Removing it may make your dog overheat.