Keep summer fun and protect your dog from heatstroke and sunburn.
Bright sun and hot temperatures of summer may be nice for a day at the beach but they can be dangerous for dogs who live outside. All dogs are susceptible to heat stroke but dark colored dogs, overweight dogs, older or frail dogs, and brachycephalic dogs are at higher risk than others. Dogs, especially light colored ones, are also susceptible to sunburn.
Dogs are safer in air conditioning. If at all possible, they should be brought inside during the hottest hours of the day. Even it means crate confinement for several hours, dogs will be much more comfortable in air conditioning than outside in the heat.
Shade
The difference between temperatures in sunlight and temperatures in shade can vary more than you might think. Having a summer picnic lunch with cold drinks in the shade of a big tree can be enjoyable but if that picnic table is in direct sunlight and drinks are warm, no one will have a good time. It’s the same for dogs who live outside. Shade moves as the earth rotates so it’s important to make sure your dog has shade all day long. A doghouse is not sufficient shade as temperatures inside climb quickly.
Outside Buildings
If your dog stays in the garage or any outside building, it should be well ventilated and breezy. Fans can help stir stuffy air as long as cords cannot be reached and chewed. Doghouses do not provide sufficient ventilation.
Cool Fresh Water
In hot summer, a panting dog, without plenty of water, can quickly become dehydrated. Warm water is not absorbed as quickly and is not as satisfying. Plenty of fresh water should be kept in the shade and within easy reach. Dogs should have several water sources as some have been known, in an effort to cool themselves, to “dig” in their water container and spill it.
Tethered Dogs
Tethers can wrap around a water container and dump it over, spilling precious water in hot temperatures. Most owners are thoughtful enough to remove any objects their dog can get tangled up in, which would prevent them from reaching water. Some owners place water containers at the very end of the dog’s reach so that it won’t get spilled but many do not realize that all tethers, especially chains, can shorten as they are twisted if the dog walks in a circle. That leaves the desperately thirsty dog just inches from life saving water. A bucket buried at least halfway into the ground will be safer from spilling.
Wading Pool/Cooling Products
Getting wet and playing in water is a great way to keep cool in summer. Many dogs love to splash in a kiddie pool or sprinkler. Pools must be kept clean as stagnant water can be a breeding place for disease-carrying mosquitoes and algae. Pet stores also offer cooling vests and pads for dogs.
Ice Treats
Frozen dog treats given throughout the day will help your pup beat the heat during the sweltering days of summer. He will love them as much as you love an ice cream freeze on a hot day.
Sunburn/Sunscreen
Some parts of a dog’s body such as ears and nose can sunburn. A sunscreen of at least SPF 15 will help protect him from the sun’s dangerous rays.
A parked car becomes an oven. Never leave your dog in a parked car.
