Like their human counterparts, dogs can have problems with heat related illnesses. People and dogs tend to be more active during the summer when it's hot and the days are pretty. Learning how to prevent heat sickness in dogs will help keep your pet happy and healthy.
It isn't as hard as you might think to prevent heat sickness. Many people own dogs in hot climates while others take their pets on vacation with them. My family successfully took our dogs to the Grand Canyon in the summertime.
As temperatures climb it is more important that ever to be aware of heat illnesses such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion in dogs. Signs of heat related illness can include panting more than normal, heavy or labored breathing, lethargy, difficulty walking or other symptoms.
Fortunately, there are some steps that pet owners can take to recognize and prevent heat sickness in dogs.
How to prevent heat sickness in dogs Tip #1
Visit the groomer.
Long fur coats are miserable in the summer. That's why humans don't wear jackets. Reducing the amount of fur will help your dog stay cooler. Visit the groomer to help get Fluffy or Fido ready for the hot summer days.
How to prevent heat sickness in dogs Tip #2
Shade
Provide a cool spot so your pet can escape the heat. A shade tree is better than a dog house which can become very hot. Older dogs or even healthy dogs may need to come in to an air conditioned building.
How to prevent heat sickness in dogs Tip #3
Water
Be sure that your dog has ready access to water at all times. This is especially crucial for any dog that is kept outdoors. Dogs who are kept indoors should also have access to water.
Collapsible water bowls are perfect for people who are traveling or for dogs who have to work outside. Open the bowl and add water. When your dog finishes drinking put the bowl in a plastic zipper bag and put it in your bag or purse for next time.
How to prevent heat sickness in dogs Tip #4
Never leave your pet in the car.
In some states this is even against the law. There are no exceptions.
How to prevent heat sickness in dogs Tip #5
Go slowly.
If your dog isn't used to the heat go slowly. Give dogs a chance to acclimate to the conditions. Leave dogs outside for short periods of the day and gradually build up. Take a short walk in the heat and build up to longer walks. Be sure to give your dog plenty of time to adjust. If vacationing, give your dog several days to get used to the new environment before strenuous or vigorous activity.
How to prevent heat sickness in dogs Tip 6
See your vet.
Make a visit before the long hot days of summer arrive. Your vet is the most reliable source of information on your dog.
How to prevent heat sickness in dogs Tip 7
Air conditioning.
Air conditioning is the #1 way to prevent heat related illness. If you even suspect that your dog is becoming ill find air conditioning immediately. Most of the time this will mean going to your car and turning on the air conditioner. Stay with your pet and monitor closely. If your dog doesn't seem to bounce back, vomits or refuses water go to a veterinarian immediately
It isn't as hard as you might think to prevent heat sickness. Many people own dogs in hot climates while others take their pets on vacation with them. My family successfully took our dogs to the Grand Canyon in the summertime.
As temperatures climb it is more important that ever to be aware of heat illnesses such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion in dogs. Signs of heat related illness can include panting more than normal, heavy or labored breathing, lethargy, difficulty walking or other symptoms.
Fortunately, there are some steps that pet owners can take to recognize and prevent heat sickness in dogs.
How to prevent heat sickness in dogs Tip #1
Visit the groomer.
Long fur coats are miserable in the summer. That's why humans don't wear jackets. Reducing the amount of fur will help your dog stay cooler. Visit the groomer to help get Fluffy or Fido ready for the hot summer days.
How to prevent heat sickness in dogs Tip #2
Shade
Provide a cool spot so your pet can escape the heat. A shade tree is better than a dog house which can become very hot. Older dogs or even healthy dogs may need to come in to an air conditioned building.
How to prevent heat sickness in dogs Tip #3
Water
Be sure that your dog has ready access to water at all times. This is especially crucial for any dog that is kept outdoors. Dogs who are kept indoors should also have access to water.
Collapsible water bowls are perfect for people who are traveling or for dogs who have to work outside. Open the bowl and add water. When your dog finishes drinking put the bowl in a plastic zipper bag and put it in your bag or purse for next time.
How to prevent heat sickness in dogs Tip #4
Never leave your pet in the car.
In some states this is even against the law. There are no exceptions.
How to prevent heat sickness in dogs Tip #5
Go slowly.
If your dog isn't used to the heat go slowly. Give dogs a chance to acclimate to the conditions. Leave dogs outside for short periods of the day and gradually build up. Take a short walk in the heat and build up to longer walks. Be sure to give your dog plenty of time to adjust. If vacationing, give your dog several days to get used to the new environment before strenuous or vigorous activity.
How to prevent heat sickness in dogs Tip 6
See your vet.
Make a visit before the long hot days of summer arrive. Your vet is the most reliable source of information on your dog.
How to prevent heat sickness in dogs Tip 7
Air conditioning.
Air conditioning is the #1 way to prevent heat related illness. If you even suspect that your dog is becoming ill find air conditioning immediately. Most of the time this will mean going to your car and turning on the air conditioner. Stay with your pet and monitor closely. If your dog doesn't seem to bounce back, vomits or refuses water go to a veterinarian immediately
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