
Roll out those lazy, hazy days of summer.
As soon as the snow melts, Edmontonians hit parks and patios en
mass. Our dogs are as glad as we are to have green grass and
flowers in bloom. But even here in Edmonton, the thermometer
can rise to a point where we need to think about keeping our dogs
safe by keeping them cool.
Remember that dogs cannot cool themselves by sweating like
humans do. The main way a dog cools off is by panting, but
panting is not always enough. The summer safety of your
canine companion is your responsibility so here are some tips to
help out:
Keep fresh, cool water available for your dog at all times.
At home, make sure a clean, fresh bowl is always
available indoors and out. If you are on the move, take a
bottle with you.
Go the extra step and create some chilled treats for your
dog. Vegetables and fruits freeze into great treats and you
can get creative with your ice cube trays to freeze up some summer
fun.
Your dog may enjoy sunbathing but ensure there is a cool, shady
spot to relax. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to heat
exhaustion as well as sunburn.
If your dog likes water, a large tub or children's pool offers
the perfect spot for a dip, but do not leave your dog unsupervised
with the pool.
On those long, hot summer nights, consider a cooling bed for
your pooch. A cooling dog bed can offer the comfort of a
regular bed with the coolness that your dog needs. Cooling
dog beds often use a gel-like material that cool upon
touch.
Exercise your dog early in the morning or late in the evening,
not in the heat of the day.
If you are going to be on hot pavement, consider getting booties
for your dog. If it is too hot for your bare feet, what about
Fido?
Symptoms of overheating in dogs include excessive panting,
drooling, difficulty breathing, increased respiratory rate,
weakness, stupor or even collapse. Overheating dogs can also
have seizures, bloody diarrhea and vomit. Dogs with flat
faces, like pugs, are more susceptible to heat stroke since they
cannot pant as effectively.
Keep the fun in summer!