By Ischelle Martin — Summer is here, and although it might feel comfortable to us humans, we have to keep our pets in mind in high temperatures. The number one rule to follow is to never leave your pet in a car. The consequences can be fatal for your best friend. Know how to recognize heat stroke in animals so you can respond appropriately. Another cause for concern is sidewalks and asphalt — these surfaces can soak up the sun and become much hotter than the air temperature, burning your pup’s paws. Some animals can suffer sunburns, just as we do. It is also very important to keep yourself and your furry friend hydrated. There are many creative solutions to these problems, so don’t hesitate to apply them!
As temperatures rise, Seattle Animal Shelter’s response to dogs locked in hot cars increases. “A 2015 Washington state law makes it a violation just to leave an animal unattended in a vehicle or enclosed space, if the animal could be harmed or killed by exposure to excessive heat or cold, lack of ventilation or lack of water. Penalties under this law are in addition to potential animal cruelty charges.” * Even on a 70-degree day, temperatures inside a car can increase past 100 degrees in less than an hour. If an animal inside a car appears to be distressed, officers will make efforts to remove the animal from the situation and avoid heat stroke.
Heat stroke is particularly dangerous for dogs with shorter muzzles, as the cavity that regulates air temperature is decreased. Early signs of overheating include excessive panting and high heart rate. Things to also look out for are: vomiting and diarrhea, skin that doesn’t immediately fall back into place when pinched, a depressed or disoriented state, and bright red gums. Heat stroke in dogs must be treated immediately and can be alleviated by immersing the animal in water and using a fan to cool it off, and by spraying alcohol onto foot pads, since dogs sweat from their feet. Never use ice, as this can cause further complications. [Side note: do not wet your dog’s head; this traps heat. Wet their chest instead!] As always, seek a veterinarian’s help as soon as possible.
When outside walking with your dog, be sure to monitor sidewalk temperatures. Heated surfaces can quickly burn your dog’s paw pads, which can cause blisters that lead to infection. You can test it with your hands — don’t force your dog to walk on a surface that is too hot to hold your hand on! Alternatively, walk in a grassy or dirt area. With training, dogs can be accustomed to wearing booties that will protect their paws from hot surfaces.
So what are some good ways to avoid the summer heat and keep your pup cool? When traveling to an area where your dog is not allowed, leave your furry friend at home instead of in your car. Bring a collapsible water bowl on your adventures. Get creative and make popsicles for your dog! My dogs love chicken broth ice cubes, but you can freeze anything that’s edible to dogs (avoid grapes, garlic, onions, and caffeine/chocolate). Stay in the shade and reduce exercise hours to early mornings and nights. Get your dog a small wading pool if you are able to. Always offer him plenty of water, and keep yourself cool as well!
Pro Tip: Do not shave your dog in order to keep it cool. A dog’s fur protects its skin from sunburn (and therefore skin cancer) and regulates air flow over their skin. Dogs do not sweat throughout their bodies, as humans do — they sweat through their paws and through panting. Their fur acts as insulation, keeping a regular body temperature. For some dogs, their coats can take years to grow back. Instead of shaving him, freeze a wet bandana and tie it around his neck!
* http://thescoop.seattle.gov/2017/05/19/seattle-animal-shelter-reminds-pet-owners-of-hot-car-dangers/
More resources:
https://www.rover.com/blog/hot-weather-dogs/
https://www.rover.com/blog/pad-burn-dogs-in/
https://www.rover.com/blog/dog-heat-stroke/