Hot Town, Summer in the Suburbs!

Aside from  NEVER leaving your dog in a hot car, how else can you keep your pet safe and cool in sweltering weather?

• Avoid pavement when you’re out walking.  If the surface is too hot for the back of your hand, it’s too hot for your pup’s paws.

• Keep your dog hydrated.  According to petmd.com, your dog should drink 1 oz of water per for every pound of body weight.  That’s 3 cups of water for a 24-lb dog. This amount can be reduced if your dog eats raw or canned food, since they contain water not found in kibble.

• Fill Kongs with moist food and freeze them. Make pupsicles by freezing ice cubes with treats in them.

• If your dog is outside, make sure that there is a shady spot available.  Use a non-metallic bowl and keep it filled. Don’t leave your dog outside too long.

• Take your dog swimming or get a kiddy pool for your yard.

• Avoid strenuous exercise, especially with brachycephalic (snub-nosed) dogs.

How to check for dehydration:

• Pull up the loose skin along your dog’s back.  If the dog is well-hydrated, the skin will spring back to its original position when you release it.

• Check the dog’s gums.  Sticky gums indicate dehydration.

Signs of heat stroke:

• Rapid heartbeat

• Excessive panting

• Drooling

• Bright red gums

• Lethargy

If you suspect your dog has heatstroke, wipe down your pet with cool (not cold), wet towels.  Pay special attention to the paws, back of the neck, armpits, groin and earflaps. TAKE YOUR DOG TO THE VET AS SOON AS POSSIBLE.