Keep Your Dogs as Cool as You

It’s simple. There’s no excuse for leaving a dog in a car on a summer day. The temperature escalates extremely fast and – tragically – can kill an innocent pet before you know it. There are also many other seasonal circumstances that can put your beloved pet’s life in danger.

Following a few simple rules can prevent disaster while you and your dog are enjoying the hot weather.

•  Always pack a water bottle for your dog to avoid dehydration just like the one you carry along for yourself.

• Do not have your dog running alongside you if you are biking; they will struggle to keep up in the heat. Leave them home and don’t force them to exercise when the temperatures are rising.

•  Love your pet? Change your routine when the temperatures are on the rise. If you take them for a walk, go in the early morning or late at night. Be aware of the asphalt’s temperature. Our feet are protected from the fiery pavement, but your dog’s paws aren’t. If you must go out during the heat of the day for your walk, buy a pair of doggie boots that will protect them from anything that can harm their paws.

• Heavy panting equals heavy sweating and overheating. Dogs cool down their body temps by panting. If your dog is becoming lethargic, drooling more than usual, has an increased heart and respiratory rate, has difficulty breathing, and doesn’t appear to be acting normal, you need to take instant action. Also, darker dogs heat up more quickly. It is the same as when you go outside on a hot day wearing black. Not pleasant.

• Signs of heat exhaustion require immediate relief. If you can’t get your pet into an air-conditioned home or car, find a shady spot or even a water fountain or pool. You can also turn on the hose and wet them down, being sure to spray their paws and belly before soaking their top. Wet a blanket and let them lay on it if they are showing signs of heat exhaustion.

•  A non-negotiable is you absolutely NEVER leave your dog in a car. Regardless of whether it is in the shade and the windows are somewhat down, you need to either keep the car running with the air conditioner on or you stay in the car with the animal and the air on inside. This scenario can – and too often does – lead to a fatal heat stroke.

• Don’t shave your pet in the summer. Their layers of hair/fur actually prevent sunburn and overheating.

• Pay attention to foods and drinks within their reach at picnics and outdoor gatherings. Many of the items typically served are poisonous to dogs. Also, keep the alcohol locked up and away from your animal and avoid feeding them junk food, raisins, grapes, onions, chocolate, and artificial sweeteners – even accidently.  Make sure they can’t raid the trash can.

• Be a compassionate pet owner and don’t take them to the fireworks shows. Also, remember unused fireworks can be hazardous because many contain potentially toxic substances such as potassium nitrate, copper, chlorates, arsenic, and other heavy metals.

Enjoy the rest of the summer season – happily and healthily – with your four-legged baby by your side in a safe manner!

For pet-sitting with a personal touch, contact Dee Hopkins at 517.546.0439 or visit us on Facebook @ DD's Pet Patrol LLC.

Written by Dee Hopkins in collaboration with Ginger Sprinkle at nine dots branding & marketing company (ginger@ninedotsbranding.com).