A Guide to Keeping Your Dog Safe in Hot Weather

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

In this article, we look at the tips from Your Dog Advisor, to understand how to prevent heatstroke in your dog companion and ensure your summer outings together are safe.

Firstly, dogs don't cool down like humans do. They can't sweat through their skin like us. Instead, they mainly rely on panting and sweat from their paws to stay cool. Heat-related problems are severe and can even be deadly. Surprisingly, about 14% of heatstroke cases are fatal. That is why it is crucial for us to stay watchful and understand the signs that could point to overheating or even a heatstroke.

Excessive panting is often the first sign. While panting is natural, too much of it in hot weather is a clear warning. It shows that your dog is struggling to deal with the heat. Find shade and help your dog cool down as soon as possible. Excessive panting can lead to a lot of drooling, which leads to further fluid loss. If you notice your dog is drooling excessively, call your vet.

According to the article on Your Dog Advisor, “24 Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs You Must Pay Attention”, some symptoms are hard to miss. Vomiting, blood in faeces, loss of consciousness, stumbling, heavy breathing, or even seizures are serious signs and may indicate your dog is suffering from a heatstroke. In such cases, you need to get to the vet immediately. However, sometimes the signs are not so obvious. Watch out for things like red and dry gums, constant tiredness, restlessness, and muscle tremors. These less noticeable signs can serve as early warnings.

Now, let's talk about prevention, which is the key to keeping your dog safe in the heat. As they say, it's better to be safe than sorry. Make sure your dog always has access to shady spots, away from direct sunlight. Keep a bowl of fresh, cool water nearby all the time. When you go on outdoor adventures with your dog, take some water with you. Pay attention to how much water your dog drinks; it can be crucial for reacting quickly to save their life. While heat can make dogs very thirsty, drinking too much can lead to vomiting and more dehydration. If you notice your dog drinking a lot and their belly looking swollen, it might be a sign of dehydration.

Why is dehydration such a big problem? In the heat, it can lead to kidney issues, permanent kidney damage, circulation problems, and even death. It might also affect their brain or make them go into a coma. If your dog seems dehydrated, offer them cool (but not icy) water, and find some shade. If they do not want to drink and seem very sick, your dog requires immediate attention.

By staying alert to the signs of overheating and taking steps to prevent them, you can ensure your furry friend's safety during hot summer days. Provide shade, a steady supply of cool water, and keep an eye on their well-being. By doing this, you can guarantee a summer filled with joy and safety spent alongside your loyal canine companion.

Check Your Dog Advisor for more research-backed content on dog care and an extended version of this article, written by Jen Jones.