Summertime can be super pleasant for you and your pet, as long as you take some safety measures to protect them from the heat. The hot climate is an issue for them since they are not able to cool off as effectively as we humans do.
How do dogs cool off naturally, you ask?
Dogs cool down through panting, not by sweating, and they struggle to do it when breathing in hot stuffy air. This may cause issues such as dehydration, heat stroke and sunburn, as a result of overheating.
NEVER leave your pooch in a hot car, even if the car is parked in the shade with the windows open. It can only take minutes for them to overheat and suffocate. If you are planning to go somewhere that requires stopping and leaving them in the car, just don’t bring them. It is not worth the risk.
WATER, WATER, and you guessed it, MORE WATER!
Access to fresh water throughout the whole day and night is even more important during summertime. Panting and drinking are the only ways dogs have to cool themselves down, so without it, they will struggle.
But water is not only good for drinking. If you get a chance, fill a pool with water to encourage them to cool down. You can also take them to one of the dozens of ponds in London for a swim. But don’t forget the sunscreen!
DOG TALES CLUB FUN TIP: Another option to help cooling your dog down is freezing their food or fruits, such as bananas. It will encourage them to eat and will refresh them at the same time.
Be smart when going for a walkies
When going for a walk, choose the cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, after the sun has gone down. Avoid 11am-3pm, as this tends to be when the temperature is at its hottest, and walk them in the grass if possible. If you cannot walk somewhere barefoot, they shouldn’t have to either.
DO NOT SHAVE
Contrary to what you may think, shaving their fur can actually do more harm than good. Their layers help protect them from overheating and sunburn.
Stay alert for any signs of heatstroke, such as lethargy, rapid panting (even more so than normal), lack of co-ordination, vomiting and diarrhea, red gums and even seizures.
Call your vet immediately if you think your dog is overheating.
We are SUPER COOL here at Dog Tales Club
We ensure that our dogs in daycare and boarding have access to fresh water all day, both in the bowl and in the pool. They are encouraged to hide from the sun and to cool down at peak hours. Dogs are supervised at all times.
If you would like to contact us, please feel free to pop us an email at info@dogtalesclub.co.uk or WhatsApp: +44 7365 439488.
