How to cool your dog in hot weather? During the summer, this is the question that many owners ask themselves. Keep in mind that during hot temperatures, dogs have a much harder time than us. They don't sweat through the body – they only cool down through their mouths, feet and ears. In such heat, your dog can overheat or get heatstroke, which is why it is important to know how to cool your dog down in hot weather. Scroll below to learn how to help your pet.
The dog and the heat aren't good friends. On hot days, pets are much warmer than us. All because they have much less cooling mechanisms. People sweat practically the entire body. Our pets, on the other hand, cool down mainly through their mouths, paws and ears. These are very small areas in relation to the rest of the body.
How to cool your dog in hot weather? Here are the effective ways:
- KEEP YOUR DOG RUNNING ACCESS TO FRESH WATER
High temperatures increase the dog's thirst. Make sure your dog always has access to fresh and cold water. Thanks to it, it can also cool down – quadrupeds cool down mainly through their mouths. Remember to also take a water bottle and a bowl for your dog for a walk.
- COOLING MAT FOR DOG
If you are wondering How to cool your dog down in hot weather, be sure to think about a cooling mat, which is a great solution for cooling your pet during high temperatures. You do not need to put it in the freezer or refrigerator – the mat works under the pressure of the pet's body. When the quadruped lies on it, the mat cools it and refreshes it. Cooling mats are available in various sizes – it is definitely worth investing in this gadget.
- DOG COOLING ACCESSORIES
In addition to the mat, there are also other cooling accessories for dogs: special vests, bowls as well as toys. Their task is to cool down the pet.
- GIVE THE POOL A COOL PLACE TO REST
In hot weather, your dog will need a cool place to which he will be able to rest – provide him with it. If you are lying in the yard, your quadruped must be in the shade – under no circumstances allow him to lie in the sun as this may lead to overheating or heat stroke.
- AVOID LONG WALKS AND PLAYS
Do not, under any circumstances, take your dog for long walks in hot weather . Also, give up play and effort. Walking and exercising during the hottest times of the day can have distressing effects, such as a life-threatening heat stroke.
See also: 5-year-old dog died after owner took him for a walk in the heat
- TAKE CARE OF THE DOG'S FEET
When you take your dog outside, pay attention to the temperature of the surface as it may burn the dog's feet. To do this, place your hand on the pavement for about 10 seconds. If you start to feel uncomfortable, think about how your dog would feel if he were to walk on such a hot surface. In hot weather it is better to walk your dog on the grass. You can also buy your pet special shoes that will protect him from burning his paws.
See also: A simple trick that will protect your dog's paws burn
- DO NOT SHARE THE DOG SHORTLY
However, many owners believe that the fur is very warm for the dog, so it should be cut briefly during the summer. It is actually a huge mistake! The dog's coat is a natural protection against heat. It works similarly to polystyrene in a house, which does not let hot air in in summer and protects against frost in winter.
View also: How to groom a dog in summer? Make no more common mistake!
- DO NOT LOCK THE DOG ON THE BALCONY
Under any apparently do not lock your dog on the balcony, especially when you leave the house. On the balcony, the temperature may turn out to be too high and have a very bad effect on your pet.
- DO NOT LEAVE THE DOG IN THE CAR
Every year intimidating animals die in parked cars due to sunstroke and exhaustion. In the car, the temperature rises alarmingly quickly and the pet literally starts to boil in such conditions. Don't let your pet suffer. In addition, if you notice an animal left in the car, be sure to notify the authorities.
See also: He left an egg in a hot car. This is the best proof of why you must not leave your dog in it