How to keep your pet cool in the summer

It’s not officially summer until June 21, but in many parts of Canada, hot days are already happening. The summer months can be dangerous for pets and it’s important to have a strategy to ensure your pets will be safe on those scorching summer days.

Here are basic practices to keep in mind every day:

• NEVER leave your pets in a parked car, not even for a MINUTE. Just don’t do it. Even if it’s not that hot outside and a window is cracked open,  your car can reach dangerous temperature levels in a matter of minutes which can lead to organ damage or death to your pet. Plus, because of the increased awareness of the dangers of leaving pets in vehicles, caring bystanders may call the police which can lead to fines. The best strategy is to leave your pet at home where he’s safe and sound.
• Remember that humidity can also affect your pet. Your dog pants to evaporate moisture from him lungs. Muggy conditions make it hard to cool themselves and their core temps can reach dangerous levels quickly. A dog’s temperature should never exceed 104 degrees but if it does, read below to learn how to treat heatstroke.
• Don’t exercise on hot days, or adjust your exercise to take place in the early morning or late evening. Be cautious with dogs who have white fur or pink skin (they’re more susceptible to skin cancer) and know that asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet’s paws. If you do go for walks, stay on the grass and bring extra water.
• Did you know that dogs sweat mainly through their feet? Although a fan may feel like relief to you, it won’t really give your dog any comfort.
• Whenever your pet is outside, provide shady spots and lots of fresh, cold water (you can add ice to the water bowl) and make sure the shady spots have good air flow. A doghouse might be a cozy spot in winter but it’s not a good option in the heat of summer because it won’t allow air to flow through.
• Even though you’re offering shade, cool breezes and lots of water, sometimes your dog needs cooling on the inside too. Pupsicles (frozen treats) are a great way to provide additional hydration that is also refreshing. There are many options available too that help with cooling your pup including cooling bandanas, vests, and mats.
• Are you camping and have no way to get indoors to get relief from the heat? Maybe you don’t have air conditioning at your home. Take advantage of cool streams or lakes or use a kiddie pool to create a place for your dog to lounge. A fun game with the water hose can also work to cool down your dog’s core temperature.
• It’s wise to learn the signs of heatstroke so that you can act quickly if your dog is ill. Watch for these signs: heavy panting, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, lack of coordination. vomiting, a purple tongue, and in extreme cases, seizures and unconsciousness.
• How do you treat heatstroke? Move your pet to a shady or air-conditioned area then get a cold, wet towel and wrap it around his head, neck and chest. You can also run cool water over him (don’t make the water too cold) and offer small drinks of water, or ice cubes to lick. A pet with heatstroke should be seen by a vet as soon as possible.