This summer, think twice before taking your dog out in extreme temperatures. Unlike us, dogs can’t sweat to cool down and heatstroke is a serious risk.
Some dogs are especially vulnerable to heat. These include dogs that are older, overweight, puppies or brachycephalic (short-nosed, like pugs, bulldogs and boxers).
It’s safest to keep them at home on hot days (even over 27° and sunny).
Never leave your dog in a vehicle, even in the shade with the windows down. Dogs die in hot cars.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. If you suspect your dog has, or is recovering from, heatstroke, don’t hesitate - get them to a vet immediately.
What are the signs of heatstroke?
- heavy panting
- drooling, excessive salivation
- restlessness
- very red or pale gums
- bright red tongue
- difficulty breathing
- vomiting or diarrhoea
- confusion
- lethargy, weakness
- muscle tremors or seizures
- little or no urination
- collapsing, stumbling, staggering
Some dogs may look happy to continue their walks regardless of whether it’s good for them or not. It’s safest to shorten your walk so they can cool off quickly. In fact, missing a walk every now and then won’t be detrimental if the alternative is a risk of heat stroke.
Exercise tips for hot days:
- Fill a paddling pool with water and bob for treats or toys in the shade.
- Fill it with sand and bury some treats for them to dig up.
- Create a treasure hunt for hidden treats around the house.
- Freeze your dog’s breakfast or dinner to cool them down while they eat.
- Freeze large blocks of ice for them to play with during the day.
- Play tug-o-war inside or do some trick training.
- It’s never too early or too late to start training – and it’s mentally stimulating!
- Use treat dispensers, or cardboard boxes to feed your dog in – they love problem solving and working for their food.
- Organise a supervised play date with a really good friend in the cool of the evening, or inside.
- Some dogs like to dig in their water to cool down, so ensure your dog has various sources of water and shade at home on hot days.
- If you have to walk your dog on a hot day, do it really early in the morning. Make sure the ground is cool, keep the walk short, and choose a route that has lots of shade.
If you can't stand bare foot on the pavement for 7 seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws.