Dogs are just as susceptible to heat stroke and dehydration during a heat wave as humans are, so it is important to keep your dog safe in a heat wave. In fact, they can be in even more danger because they can’t tell us when they’re not feeling well. That’s why it’s important to take precautions to keep your dog safe and cool during this hot weather. Here are 10 tips to help you do just that!
What is a Heat Wave?
A heat wave is a prolonged period of abnormally hot weather. The exact definition varies from place to place, but in general, a heat wave lasts for several days and involves temperatures that are significantly above average for the location.
Heat waves can be dangerous, especially for people who are not used to hot weather or who have certain medical conditions. Dogs can also be affected by heat waves, so it’s important to take steps to protect them from the heat.
Do dogs feel heatwave more compared to Humans?
Dogs are more prone to heatstroke than humans because they can only cool themselves by panting and sweating through their paw pads. (They don’t have sweat glands as we do.) This means that on hot, humid days, they can’t cool themselves efficiently enough to prevent overheating.
How to keep your dogs safe during a Heatwave?
As temperatures start to rise, it’s important to be aware of the dangers that heat waves can pose to our furry friends.
Here are some tips to help keep your dog safe during a heat wave:
- Water is your best friends best friend
Give your dog extra water. Make sure they always have access to fresh, cool water, and give them more than usual to drink during a heat wave. You might even want to add some ice cubes to their water bowl.
- Time to turn on your sprinklers
Offer your dog several ways to cool off. A kiddie pool, a sprinkler, or a hose can all provide refreshing relief from the heat. Be sure to supervise your dog while they’re playing in the water, though, as they could accidentally drown if left unattended.
- Do not leave your dog in the car, never
Never leave your dog alone inside a car. Cars can heat up quickly, even on relatively mild days, and dogs can suffer from heat stroke very quickly when left in a hot car. If you have to take your dog with you in the car, make sure that there’s always someone else in the vehicle who can keep an eye on them.
- Put a break to your afternoon walks
Take your walks in the morning or evening. Avoid walking your dog during the middle of the day when it’s hottest outside. If you have to walk during the daytime, try to stick to shady areas and avoid hot pavement.
- Limit his balcony breaks
Don’t leave your dog alone outside for more than a few minutes. If you have a yard, that’s great – but don’t leave your dog out there by themselves for too long. They could get dehydrated or overheat very quickly.
- Look out for hot sidewalks
Avoid hot sidewalks. Hot pavement can burn your dog’s paws, so try to walk on grass whenever possible. If you must walk on pavement, consider using booties or paw pads to protect your dog’s feet. Avoid walking your dog during the middle of the day when it’s hottest outside. If you have to walk during the daytime, try to stick to shady areas and avoid hot pavement.
- Apply some dog sunscreen
Dogs can also get sunburned, so consider applying sunscreen to exposed areas like their nose and ears.
- Watch out for any symptoms
If your dog starts panting heavily or seems lethargic, that’s a sign that they’re overheating and you should seek medical attention immediately.
- Keep your AC on
During the heatwave make sure you have AC for the entire afternoon. It is safe for both you and your dog.
- Plan a trip
If you living nearby a beach do not hesitate to go for a beach walk during the evenings or plan a trip to locations that do not have a heatwave. Your dog loves some vacation with you.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your dog stays safe and comfortable during a heat wave. Remember, if you’re ever in doubt about whether it’s too hot for your dog to be outside, err on the side of caution and bring them inside. Better safe than sorry!
What to do if your dog faints due to Heatwave?
If your dog faints due to a heat wave, immediately cool down their body temperature and bring them to the vet. Some dogs may only require rest and fluids, while others may need more intensive treatment. If your dog is panting heavily or showing other signs of heat exhaustion, such as lethargy, vomiting, or diarrhea, it will likely need immediate medical attention.
Remember to never leave your dog alone in a car during a heat wave, as this can be fatal. Dogs should also always have access to shade and plenty of water when outdoors.
Can dogs fur protect them from a Heatwave?
It’s a common misconception that a dog’s fur coat can protect them from hot weather. In fact, dogs can suffer from heat stroke just like humans. Their fur coat can actually make it harder for them to regulate their body temperature in warm weather.
How hot can a dog’s paw handle?
Here’s a quick test to see how hot your pavement is: Place your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too hot to keep your hand there, it’s too hot for your dog to walk on.
Hot sidewalks aren’t just uncomfortable, they can also burn your pup’s paws. Put shoes on them or carry them until the pavement has cooled off.
It doesn’t have to be super sunny for heat stroke to set in either Dog can get heat stroke when it’s cloudy and humid outside. If you’re unsure whether or not it’s too hot for a walk, err on the side of caution and don’t go out.
Can I leave my dog in the car during a heatwave?
You might think that bringing your dog with you in the car will keep them cool, but it can actually do the opposite. On a 78-degree day, the temperature inside your car can reach up to 104 degrees in just minutes, even with the windows cracked.
Dogs don’t sweat as we do, so they can’t cool themselves off as easily. When they’re overheated, they pant heavily which causes their body to lose even more moisture.
Leaving my dog outside during a Heatwave
You might not think that leaving your dog outside for a few minutes while you run into the store is a big deal, but it can be deadly during a heat wave. If it’s too hot for you to be outside, it’s too hot for your dog. Dogs left alone in yards during heat waves are at risk for heat stroke, sunburn, and dehydration. Even if you have a shaded spot for your dog to lounge in, it’s not enough. Dogs can still get sunburned, so make sure they have sunscreen on any exposed skin.
Epi-Pet K-9 Care Sunscreen, Paws to Tail Protection, Prevents Sunburns on Dogs and Horses, Sun Protector Spray, SPF 30+, Non-Greasy/Oily Solution – 3.5 oz
If your dog is going to be outside for more than a few minutes, make sure they have access to plenty of water and shade. Check on them often to make sure they’re not overheating.
Do you have any other tips for keeping dogs cool in the summer heat? Share them in the comments below!
