Summer is officially here – and so are higher temperatures. As much as we welcome the sun and fun, it’s important to remember that the rising temperatures can have a major effect on your dog’s health. Dogs can easily get overheated because the only ways they release heat is by panting and through a limited number of sweat glands between their toes.
TIP 1 – DON’T LEAVE YOUR PET IN AN UNATTENDED VEHICLE
On a 75-degree day, the temperature inside a parked car can climb up to 115 degrees within an hour. Even with the windows down, a dog can easily overheat if left in these conditions.
TIP 2 – AVOID WALKING WHEN TEMPERATURES ARE MOST HIGHEST
Your pup’s paws can be as sensitive as the soles of your feet. Avoid Walking in the Afternoon and aim for the Early Morning and Evening when the Sun is coming down. TOP TIP: To know whether the ground is too hot for your dog to walk on, Place your hand on the floor for 5 seconds. If your hand is too hot, then your dogs paws are going to be hot as well. Instead allow your dog to have fun in the garden and even look at purchasing a Paddling Pool for your pet to play in.
TIP 3 – FRESH, CLEAN WATER
Some dogs get a bit finicky with their water if there’s an odd scent in the bowl or if it’s been warming up in the sun for a while. Keeping a fresh, clean supply of H2O in your dog’s dish will ensure that your pup drinks more often and stays hydrated.
TIP 4 – COOL YOUR DOG DOWN
As the day goes along the temperature will continue to rise. To ensure your dog remains cool throughout the day, use a Bottle and Trigger Spray Attachment and fill with water. Throughout the day continue to spray your dogs coat and feet to help cool down.
TIP 5 – BRING FRESH WATER FOR YOUR DOG WHEN YOU GO OUT
Always grab a portable bowl and water bottle on your way out the door, so that your pup can drink up even when you’re both on the go.
TIP 6 – IF IT’S > 85 DEGREES, LEAVE YOUR DOG AT HOME
Going to the beach and sitting out all day in the sun is something we humans enjoy, but it can leave pooches severely dehydrated. Even if you feel like the heat is bearable, remember, when dogs are exposed to moderately high temperatures over an extended period of time, their bodies might be unable to cool down.
TIP 7 – APPLY SUNSCREEN TO YOUR DOG’S FUR AND SKIN
Despite their furry coats, dogs can still be exposed to and damaged by UV rays. Coating their fur and skin in doggy UV protectant sunblock will help prevent burns and keep them healthy.
TIP 8 – LET YOUR DOG STAND IN A COOL POOL
Aside from panting, dogs cool down through the sweat glands in their paws. Having them stand in a cool pool of water or giving them a quick foot soak can help lower their body temperature. It can also be helpful to put some cold water on your dog’s chest. Never use ice to help your dog cool down, as it may lower their temperature too quickly and constrict blood flow, which will actually inhibit the body from cooling.
TIP 9 – KNOW THE SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION
APC Pure does not accept any responsibility, this is a guide only.