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For a doggo, summer is sometimes fun due to more outdoor activities. But the season also brings its own set of health concerns. The heat can cause dogs to get dehydrated, suffer heatstroke, or become sick from eating infected water. Also, the hot and humid Indian weather makes fleas more active and can cause them to bite people and dogs. If you’re worried about your dog’s summer health, here are some things you should know.
You will also need a Winter Care for Dogs in 6 months, so read and bookmark that.
And, it is rainy season in India; read Best Raincoat for Dogs.
Signs that your dog is suffering due to heat
During summertime, dogs can suffer heatstroke, a condition caused by a body temperature that is too high. If left untreated, heatstroke can cause damage to the brain and other organs and lead to death. To prevent such tragedy, you should know the signs of heatstroke in dogs and what to do if your pet is exposed to extreme temperatures;
- Heavy panting
- Dry or bright red gums
- Thick drool
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Wobbly legs
A dog’s body temperature can increase 1.5 times faster than a human’s. Dogs have no sweat glands, so they cannot cool themselves down by sweating if they get overheated and stressed. If you notice your dog acting lethargic or sluggish in hot weather, immediately move him into a shaded area and give him plenty of cold water.
Look for a good dog shelter if you are away.
If you are going on vacation this summer and can’t take your dog with you, it is best to have him stay in a kennel or send him to a doggie daycare where he can play with other dogs and exercise during the day.
Buy your dog a harness (collar)
Sometimes, dogs become erratic in hot weather and may run occasionally. Dogs should wear a collar with ID tags when in public so that if they are suddenly ill, you can find and treat/her quickly.
How to Keep Your Dog Cool in the Summer?
If you live in a hot climate and plan to go away this summer, leaving your dog in a cool place is essential. You may consider a small cooler for dogs if you don’t have air conditioning.
Invest in premium dog summer clothes
Make sure that the clothes you buy are comfortable and well-fitted. Getting clothes with elasticized waists and cuffs is a good idea so they won’t slip or fall off your dog. Also, it’s important to remember that dogs can overheat easily, so ensure that the clothes you buy are lightweight and breathable.
Dog summer beds
My dog loves her new dog bed! She is a small dog and likes to curl up in a ball, so the smaller size works perfectly for her. It was also effortless to put together. I did it by myself (and I’m not very handy). I would recommend this product.
Never leave your pet in the car
Most pets love riding in cars. But they wouldn’t enjoy being stuck in it somewhere in the parking lot when it heats up to over 100 degrees. You may think leaving your pet in a car for a few minutes is no big deal. However, it can take less than 10 minutes to develop heatstroke in dogs and cats inside a hot vehicle.
Things to remember in summer if you are a dog owner
Here are some tips for dog owners to keep their furry friends happy and healthy during the summer months:
- Avoid Hot Pavement: The pavement can get incredibly hot during summer, making it painful for your dog to walk. Put your hand on the pavement for a quick temperature test. If it’s too hot to keep your hand on, it’s too hot for your pup to walk on.
- Trim Their Coat: A thick coat can make summer weather unbearable for your dog. Please give them a light trim to help them stay cool.
- Protect Their Paws: Hot pavement isn’t just tough on their pads; it can also burn their paw. Put shoes on your dog or apply pet-safe sunscreen to their paws before heading out for a walk.
- Keep Them Hydrated: Dogs can dehydrate quickly in warm weather, so ensure they have plenty of freshwaters to drink.
How to take care of your dog in summer? Quick Points
Dogs are susceptible to heatstroke and other heat-related illnesses, so taking extra care of them during the summer is essential. Ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water and shade, and don’t let them over-exert themselves during hot days.
If possible, take your dog for walks early in the morning or late at night when it’s cooler outside. Be especially careful with short-nosed breeds, elderly dogs, and those with health conditions that make them more vulnerable to heat. And never leave your dog alone in a car, even for just a few minutes!
Dog summer care: Quick FAQs
Can I leave my dog in the car during the summer months?
You should never leave your dog in the car during summer, as it can lead to heat exhaustion and even death.
Can I take my dog to the beach during the summer months?
Yes, you can take your dog to the beach during summer, but ensure plenty of shade, water, and sun protection.
What are the signs of heat exhaustion in dogs?
Signs of heat exhaustion in dogs include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, and collapse.
Dr Vinay C P, B.V.Sc. & A.H., M.V.Sc., P.G.D.OH.
B.V.Sc. & A.H., M.V.Sc., P.G.D.OH.
Designation:- Director Of Veterinary Operations
Experience:- 5+ Years Of Professional Experience