As summer heats up, learn how to keep your dog cool and protect them from heat stroke.
Whether you believe in climate change or not most would agree it seems spring and summer seem to be getting hotter. A few degrees is more of an irritant to us but could lead to death to our pets. – Eli Enki
A few more tips dealing heat.
On an 85 degree day, cars can heat up to temperatures over 102 degrees in 10 minutes. Yet dogs are exposed to heat stroke in cars and while out playing or walking daily in our neighborhoods. As pet sitters and dog walkers in the community, we’d like to educate pet owners on preventing unnecessary suffering from heatstroke, a life-threatening situation. Follow these six tips to prevent heat stroke for a fun, healthy summer with your dogs!
1. Pay attention to your dog’s breed and health
Heat stroke is typically seen in very young and senior dogs. However, overweight dogs and any dog not acclimated to hot weather left outside for long in the heat, or allowed to exercise for too long outdoors could suffer from heat stroke. Certain breeds, such as the brachycephalic breeds (also known as short-nosed breeds, like Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs), are at a high risk for heat stroke.
2. Avoid exercising in full sun
Miami can be a gorgeous, ideal place for a walk thanks to its majestic mix of banyan, live oak and flowering trees providing a shady canopy above our streets. Our furry clients love it as much as we do! But there are many stretches of road exposed to the searing sun, and this, mixed with our high humidity, can be punishing on a dog.
3. Stay hydrated and stay on the grass
Always take water on your walk if it’s quicker than a short stroll. If you must walk your dog in the full afternoon sun, wet your dog thoroughly with cool water from your hose. Our friends with long coats especially appreciate this!
Tip: Test the water coming out of hoses coiled in the sun. The water heats up considerably and could scald your poor pup! Make sure the water comes out cold before giving a bath or a sip.
If you are walking your dog around your favorite boutiques or down an exposed portion of the road, keep your dog on the grass. Your pup’s paws will suffer on the hot asphalt. How can you tell if it’s too hot for a dog to walk on? Place your bare palm on the road and hold it for 10 seconds. If it’s too hot to bear for you, it’s too hot for your dog to walk on.
4. Keep your dog inside
We personally do not believe dogs should live outdoors in Miami. There is too great a risk for overheating, for them being stolen, or for them getting into something poisonous or dangerous. If you must keep your beloved family member outdoors, be sure to give them a place with shade to escape the sun and cool water at all times.
5. Never leave your dog in a parked car
As we mentioned earlier, according to the Humane Society, on an 85-degree day in Miami, temperatures inside cars with slightly cracked windows can reach 102 degrees within ten minutes, and skyrocket to 120 degrees after 30 minutes. A crack in the window is not enough to circulate air in breeze-less Florida. Be safe and keep your dog home while you run errands.
6. Be an advocate
We have all seen pet owners do many of the above things. As pet lovers and parents ourselves, we should feel confident in speaking up for dogs in these situations. Be their voice, as they have none. If you see an animal in a locked car, immediately call animal control or 911. Try to find the owner or contact the store manager. Don’t be shy – the animal’s life could depend on your actions. Should you come across any of the following signs, you must be prepared to take action as well.
Follow these tips for a great summer with your pooches!
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Source: Angieslist Video: The Drake Center for Veterinary Care
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