This is a good time to remind people about their canine friends and the heat. Taking proper precautions will keep your pet cool and safe from heat stroke. Dogs need adequate fresh cold water, I like to add ice cubes or crushed ice. If you are traveling with your pet always have cool water assessable using a portable container. For the backyard, have cool drinking water, and maybe a small pool or sprinkler. A dog cannot not sit out in the hot sun all day they must have shaded areas where they can cool down. Tents, gazebos, trees offer shade for your furry friends. I do not let my dogs spend much time out in the hot humid heat, I prefer that they are in an air conditioned areas where they can lie on a cool floor, this is best for all dogs. If it’s too hot outside for humans than its too hot for your pets.
NEVER EVER leave your dog in a car when it is hot even with the windows open. It amazes me how these warnings go out every year and yet people still leave their dogs in cars with windows up and no water, it only takes seconds for animals to be in distress and minutes before its too late to save them. Be responsible and be a good owner, never leave your dog in a car when it is hot outside.
Older animals, sick, short nosed and overweight animals need to be watched more closely as they are more sensitive when exposed to the heat. Certain breeds, like pugs, bulldogs, boxers etc. are more susceptible to being affected by the heat as they have poor panting mechanisms.
When you walk your dog it is best to do in the morning or evening when the pavement is cool on their paws. Don’t over exert them, go too far or run them in the heat. Bring water with you to give your animal even on short walks.
Taking just a few precautions will keep your canine friend cool and safe during the hot days of summer!