If it's hot outside for us, especially with high humidity, you know it's going to be hot for dogs covered in fur! There are many dangers dogs can face in the hot weather, just like humans, such as dehydration and heatstroke. Here are a few common sense ways to keep dogs and other companion animals safe in the heat, and there are resources linked below with more information if you'd like to do further reading on this topic. As a dog walker or someone who has companion animals, it's crucial to know this information.
Before I begin, if you live near Columbia or Ellicott City and would like to book my companion animal services, please click here to visit my main page.
1. NEVER LEAVE ANIMALS IN PARKED CARS!
Even with the windows open, it can get extremely hot inside a car that's not moving or running air conditioning. Luckily, many places are making it illegal to leave animals in cars and some places are supporting movements where people can break the car window to rescue an animal left in the heat. It should be common sense not to leave animals (or kids) in parked cars, but just in case it isn't, I wanted to give a friendly reminder. Similarly, dogs should never be left unattended outdoors, especially in the heat!
2. MAKE SURE THEY HAVE PLENTY OF WATER
Dogs can get dehydrated, just like us. Make sure they have plenty of fresh, cool water so they can keep themselves cool and healthy.
3. LIMIT TIME IN THE SUN AND HEAT, TRY TO UTILIZE SHADE, DON'T WALK ON ASPHALT WHEN POSSIBLE
Stay in the shade when possible rather than in the sun and try to limit outdoor activities in the extreme heat. Try to get the bulk of the outdoor activities done during the earlier morning or later evening hours when it's usually a bit milder.
Also, the temperatures of asphalt/blacktop and other concrete surfaces, rubber or mixed composition surfaces can get incredibly hot. Animals can severely burn their feet/paw pads in only a short period of time. Try to walk on grass and stick to shadier areas as mentioned.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS:
It seems obvious not to over-exercise in the heat. Even walking an amount that might be considered "normal" for that dog might be too much depending on the weather. Older dogs, puppies, certain breeds, dogs with health concerns, and dogs with thicker fur are some who might be at higher risk and more susceptible to the heat.
Educate yourself regarding signs of heatstroke, including heavy panting, difficulty breathing, lethargy, loose stool, vomit, and other signs. See more info here: How Hot is Too Hot? Here's What You Need to Know to Prevent Heatstroke in Dogs.
Read more tips and information from the ASPCA at: Hot Weather Safety Tips.
It's also wise to know where your closest vet is just in case you need to make a trip there in an emergency situation, not just during extreme weather.
Interested in booking with me? Please check out Bethany Burleson: Companion Animal Services. THANKS!!
Before I begin, if you live near Columbia or Ellicott City and would like to book my companion animal services, please click here to visit my main page.
1. NEVER LEAVE ANIMALS IN PARKED CARS!
Even with the windows open, it can get extremely hot inside a car that's not moving or running air conditioning. Luckily, many places are making it illegal to leave animals in cars and some places are supporting movements where people can break the car window to rescue an animal left in the heat. It should be common sense not to leave animals (or kids) in parked cars, but just in case it isn't, I wanted to give a friendly reminder. Similarly, dogs should never be left unattended outdoors, especially in the heat!
2. MAKE SURE THEY HAVE PLENTY OF WATER
Dogs can get dehydrated, just like us. Make sure they have plenty of fresh, cool water so they can keep themselves cool and healthy.
3. LIMIT TIME IN THE SUN AND HEAT, TRY TO UTILIZE SHADE, DON'T WALK ON ASPHALT WHEN POSSIBLE
Stay in the shade when possible rather than in the sun and try to limit outdoor activities in the extreme heat. Try to get the bulk of the outdoor activities done during the earlier morning or later evening hours when it's usually a bit milder.
Also, the temperatures of asphalt/blacktop and other concrete surfaces, rubber or mixed composition surfaces can get incredibly hot. Animals can severely burn their feet/paw pads in only a short period of time. Try to walk on grass and stick to shadier areas as mentioned.
OTHER CONSIDERATIONS:
It seems obvious not to over-exercise in the heat. Even walking an amount that might be considered "normal" for that dog might be too much depending on the weather. Older dogs, puppies, certain breeds, dogs with health concerns, and dogs with thicker fur are some who might be at higher risk and more susceptible to the heat.
Educate yourself regarding signs of heatstroke, including heavy panting, difficulty breathing, lethargy, loose stool, vomit, and other signs. See more info here: How Hot is Too Hot? Here's What You Need to Know to Prevent Heatstroke in Dogs.
Read more tips and information from the ASPCA at: Hot Weather Safety Tips.
It's also wise to know where your closest vet is just in case you need to make a trip there in an emergency situation, not just during extreme weather.
Interested in booking with me? Please check out Bethany Burleson: Companion Animal Services. THANKS!!
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