As we head into summer, it’s essential to relax, recharge, and create memories with your dog. But during the summer, some climates can get particularly hot. You can beat the heat and prevent your dog from getting heatstroke by following these tips for staying cool. We also have some great ideas for fun and safe summer activities for dogs.
Heat Stroke Can Threaten Your Dog During Summer
Heatstroke occurs when your dog’s body heat rises too high, and panting can’t relieve it. Heatstroke is caused by neglect by the owner by not being responsible with their dog and leaving them in an environment where the dog is exposed to extreme heat.
During the summer, it is particularly dangerous for dogs to overheat when temperatures get high. Symptoms of heatstroke include:
- Excessive Panting
- Drooling
- Reddening Gums
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Uncoordinated Movement
- Collapse
- Loss of Consciousness
If your dog shows signs of heatstroke symptoms, remove them from the hot environment, give them cool water, and call your veterinarian.
Tips for Keeping Your Dog Safe During the Hot Summer Months
Here are some fantastic tips for keeping your dog cool during the summer:
Provide Lots of Fresh Drinking Water for Your Dog
The best way to fortify your dog from heatstroke is to provide cool fresh drinking water for your dog. Dogs should drink at least 1 ounce of water for every pound of weight per day. In the summer, they may need more water to keep from dehydrating. By providing a large bowl of water daily, your dog will drink what it needs to stay hydrated.
Fill a Small Paddling Pool With Water
Having a small paddling pool full of cool water is an excellent way for your dog to swim, wade, and cool off during the heat. A paddling pool is an inexpensive option for cooling down your dog. If you leave water in the pool overnight, make sure you check the temperature before allowing your dog to get in it the next day.
Purchase Cooling Products and Accessories
There are also several dog-specific products on the market and in pet stores that can help to cool your dog during the summer months. Some of these products include:
- Cooling Vests
- Cooling Beds
- Shaded Shelters
- Air Cots
- Dog Drinking Water Fountain
- Polar Bowls
- Crate Fans
- Freezable Dog Toys
Freeze a Water Bottle for Your Dog’s Enclosure
A frozen water bottle provides a cool, safe object for your dog to lean against or lay on to stay cool during the summer. This is also a very inexpensive way to help your dog avoid heatstroke.
Ensure Your Yard Can Provide Shade
If you let your dog out in the backyard to play, then you want to provide adequate shade for your dog to cool down after running and playing. If you don’t have trees or a covered patio, you may want to put a pop-up tent or umbrella out to create shade for your dog.
