Beat the summer heat: keeping dogs safe and cool

Summer is almost upon us, and with the change in season comes the promise of outdoor activities. Before heading out for fun in the sun with your number one sidekick, check out our list of top ways to keep your dogs cool this summer and safe in the heat.

Summer Dog Heat Safety 101

Keeping your dog cool in the summer isn’t just about comfort: Their lives might just depend on it. Heat-related illnesses kill roughly one out of every four dogs affected. Preventing overheating doesn’t require you to stay in the air conditioning, but it may require a few extra steps to ensure your dog’s wellbeing.

1. Hydration: Offer ample supplies of fresh water at home, and on outings, take along a collapsible bowl and water. Offer your pup water frequently, especially when engaged in high-energy activities. Consider installing a sprinkler for more cool fun in the sun.
2. Ground temperatures: Blacktop and asphalt heat up quickly and can retain that heat for hours after the sun has dipped below the horizon. Use your hand to check the temperature of the pavement before letting your dog walk on it. If you cannot touch the ground for at least 10 seconds, then it’s too hot. Wait for your walk or use dog shoes.
3. Car rides: Many dogs love riding alongside their favorite person. Even brief stops can put your dog at risk, however. Never leave your dog unattended in the car. On a sunny day, temperatures inside cars can reach more than 100 degrees in just 15 minutes even when the temperature outside is still relatively cool.
4. Timing: Avoid strenuous activities during the heat of the day, between 3 and 5 p.m. Instead, try to take walks and play with your dog earlier in the morning or later in the evening.
5. Shade: Ensure your dog has access to shade when they’re outside so they can cool off whenever they want.
6. Extreme temperatures: When temperatures rise dramatically or on days with high humidity, plan indoor activities in an air conditioned space. At Playful Pack dog daycare, dogs can enjoy all the activities they love without the heat. Our indoor climate-controlled play area features equipment designed just for them, lots of fun activities, and dog care professionals supervising interactions. With packs separated by temperament and size, we have the perfect playgroup for your pup to fit right in.

Heatstroke and Dog Overheating Signs: What You Need to Know

When your dog is overheated, get them to a cool space right away. Your dog is most likely to suffer heat stroke if left outside in hot, humid weather with no access to shade or water, when exercising strenuously in the heat, or when left alone in a hot car.

All dogs are vulnerable to heat stroke, but some breeds – and mixes with these breeds – are even more susceptible. Your dog may need you to take extra precautions if they’re a brachycephalic, or short-muzzle-breed, like a pug or boxer. Overweight, elderly, or special needs dogs may also be at an increased risk.

Symptoms of heat stroke can include:

• Heavy panting
• Drooling
• Whining
• Difficulty breathing
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Bloody diarrhea
• Seizures
• Confusion
• Collapse

Any symptoms of overheating or heat stroke should be addressed immediately. Take your dog to a vet or emergency vet hospital right away.

Contact us to schedule your dog's temperament test at Playful Pack dog daycare.

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