Don't sweat it, there are ways to keep your pet safe in the summer heat.
It's bikini season and you know what that means -- your dog can easily overheat. The summer months, as wonderful as they are, can pose some real dangers for your pets. Heatstroke can be deadly. Here are some signs to look for:
- Excessive Panting
- Lethargy
- Weakness
- Drooling
- High fever
- Dark red gums
- Rapid heartbeat and
- Unresponsiveness to commands and surroundings.
If you think your dog may have heatstroke, head straight to your vet's office it could save his life.
On the rocks
Popsicles don't come in liver flavor so the next best thing is fresh, ice-cold water -- it's really a staple that your pets must have. You may have to refill your dog's bowl many times in very hot weather and add ice cubes to cool him off.
When you're hot, sticking your face in front of a fan feels so good, but dogs -- not so much. Dogs sweat through their paws and don't cool off the same way humans do. Keep them in a shady area and avoid a doghouse as the heat can become trapped inside and make it worse for them.
One of the most dangerous things you can ever do is leave your dog in a car -- in a car period, not just with the windows rolled up. The car is like an oven and the temperature just keeps rising. The car can heat up to 120 degrees on a hot day and leaving the air conditioning on with the dog inside is not much safer. He could drive off.
Skin cancer is not just for humans, your dog can get it too. Apply doggie sunscreen if you are going on a play date or for a long extended walk in the sun. It's best to take walks in the early morning and the evening.
All in all it's a great time of year to enjoy the outdoors and have fun with your dog. Just like anything, don't overdo it and use common sense.
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