Barbecue meals, nature walks, relaxing at the beach, traveling and vacationing abroad… For all sorts of reasons, summer is a time of year that we all eagerly look forward to, but for our chickens as well as our four-legged friends, intense heat can be dangerous. Dogs are particularly vulnerable to heat stroke, and it is essential to know how to protect them when temperatures soar during a heatwave. Here are some tips and advice to ensure your dog’s well-being during hot days and help them better cope with the intense heat indoors and outdoors.
Signs of heat stroke in dogs
It is crucial to quickly recognize the signs of heat stroke in a dog in order to act promptly. Here are the most common symptoms to watch for:
-Dogs regulate their temperature mainly through panting. If your dog pants much more than usual or more loudly and their breathing is faster and irregular, it’s a sign that they are too hot. Note that the normal body temperature for these pets is 38 to 39°C. At 40°C and above, it can be worrisome.
-A dog that suddenly seems tired or lacks energy may be suffering from the heat. On the contrary, if they seem more excited than usual, be vigilant in case of a change in behavior.
-Excessive salivation may indicate that your dog is trying to cool down. Besides salivating, the presence of foam should also be concerning as well as a hot nose.
-Changes in color inside your dog’s mouth (blue tongue and lips) may indicate oxygen deprivation due to overheating.
-Vomiting, diarrhea… Gastrointestinal symptoms can also occur in the case of heat stroke.
-Dogs may tremble or have seizures and dizziness when overheated.
-Lastly, a faster heartbeat is another worrisome sign.
Dogs at risk
Heatstroke can particularly occur in overweight, treated, or dehydrated pets. Breeds with flat noses may also have difficulty breathing (bulldogs, boxers, etc.). Vigilance is therefore crucial. Not being accustomed to hot climates, enduring several consecutive days and nights of high temperatures, being in a confined, poorly ventilated space, staying in the sun, or engaging in intense activity can also increase the risks of heat stroke.
How to react in case of heat stroke in dogs?
Forcing your pet to drink is unnecessary. If they need it, they will drink on their own if you provide them with fresh water. Also, avoid ice, water spray, or cold baths that could cool them down too quickly, which exposes them to additional risks if they are already weakened. If you notice one or more of the listed signs or if your dog faints, act immediately by consulting a veterinarian as soon as possible. They can also advise you on what to do over the phone if your furry friend’s condition is not too serious.
Prevention is still the best way to avoid facing an emergency situation! Here’s how to protect your pet from the heat by following the advice and precautions to take during the summer season.
Tips to protect your dog from the heat in summer
Keep your pet hydrated
Among the practical tips to keep your dog cool and safe during periods of high heat, the most important is to ensure they always have access to fresh and clean water, especially during your outings. If you’d like, you can freeze water with added chicken broth, toys, and treats in a bowl or cake mold and give that to your dog to lick when it’s too hot. This will keep them entertained and refreshed.
Keep your dog out of the heat
Create shady areas in your garden or balcony where your dog can take refuge. A well-ventilated hut or a tent for dogs can also be useful. Make sure there is always a shaded spot even as the sun moves throughout the day.
Good walking habits
Sidewalks, asphalt, and sand can become scorching under the sun. Opt for grassy paths and always check the ground temperature for a few seconds with the back of your hand before going out. You can also put a tiny bit of vaseline on their paw pads to limit cracking or dryness if necessary. Just avoid using too much, as roughness is important for dogs’ paw pads.
Furthermore, walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening preferably, when temperatures are lower. Avoid outings as much as possible during the hottest hours of the day (generally between 10 am and 6 pm) and protect them from UV rays if you plan to have a picnic outdoors, as UV rays are as harmful to them as they are to you. So bring along a UV-resistant sunshade and a sunshade for the car.
Cooling tips
Ice, cold baths, and fresh water sprays should be avoided in case of heat stroke to prevent a thermal shock. However, as a preventive measure, you can give your dog lukewarm water baths to help them cool down. You can also use a damp washcloth to moisten their coat. Focus on their neck, head, belly, and inner thighs. A water spray bottle is also an option. Finally, there are cooling garments that can be useful if your pet is used to wearing this type of accessory all year round. There are cooling bandanas or a cooling vest specially designed for dogs that can help maintain their body temperature.
Things to avoid when it is hot
To protect your dog from the heat, there are some common mistakes to avoid. First and foremost, never leave a dog in a car. Even with the windows cracked open, the temperature inside the vehicle can quickly rise and become deadly. Air conditioning can also fail. Heat can kill your pet in a matter of minutes, which is why it is permissible to break a window to save a dog locked in extreme heat.
If you cannot leave them at home, park in the shade, leave a window cracked open, and do not leave your pet alone unsupervised. Someone can offer them water. Furthermore, avoid car travel as much as possible in very hot weather. It’s unpleasant for you, so imagine the effect on your furry friend covered in fur! If you absolutely must, use the air conditioning (in moderation) and a sunshade for the back seat. Also, take frequent breaks to give them water, but also to let them relieve themselves and stretch their legs if the journey is long.
Additionally, avoid intense exercise and reduce physical activities during hot days. Games and running can quickly overheat your dog. Furthermore, although it may seem like a good idea, you should never completely shave their coat, even if a small trim is indeed possible. Their fur acts as insulation against the heat. If you wish to groom them, ask your veterinarian for advice on how to do so safely. Lastly, do not neglect regular care. Brush your dog regularly to remove dead hair and promote better airflow on their skin.
