How to Keep a Pet Cool
It is important to keep your pet cool during the "dog days" of summer. Unlike us, dogs have sweat glands on their noses and on the pads of their feet. In order to cool down, dogs pant and drink water. Dogs can experience heat exhaustion from becoming dehydrated and from over exercising during hot weather. Dogs can also experience heatstroke when the dog's body temperature remains too high for too long. Prevent an unfortunate situation, by reading on to learn how to keep a pet cool.
Instructions
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Always be sure your dog has access to fresh, cool water. The hot sun can make water too hot to drink so be sure to give your dog fresh, cool water frequently.
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Never, ever leave a pet alone in a car on a hot day. Leaving the windows slightly open or parking in the shade is not enough. The temperature inside a parked car on a hot day can reach over 150 degrees in just a few minutes. If you absolutely must leave your pet in the car for a few minutes, take an extra key and leave the engine running with the air conditioning on and the doors locked.
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Protect your dog from sunburn, especially if you own a pale, short haired dog. Use a sunscreen designed for use on pets and apply as directed. Be sure not to apply the sunscreen in places where it can be licked off.
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It is dangerous and in some places, illegal to drive with a dog in the back of a pick up truck. Dogs need to ride in the cab or in a secured crate. A dog in the back of a pick up truck is at risk of being thrown if the driver swerves suddenly and can be injured by flying debris. Driving with a dog on your lap is also not a good idea.
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More fertilizer and pesticides are used outdoors in the summer than any other time of year. Plant food, fertilizer and insecticide can be fatal if ingested by your pet. Many plants produce substances that are toxic and cause harm if ingested. Be careful about where you let your pet roam. Be sure your pet is well trained and responds to your commands.
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Spay or neuter your pet. In addition to the health benefits of spaying and neutering, the likelihood of your pet biting will be reduced.
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Pets and pools can equate to disaster. Always supervise your pet if you allow him into the pool. Make sure the pet does not have free access to the pool.
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Do not travel with your pet during the hottest times of the year. Many airlines will not allow pets to travel in baggage during the summer. Many trains and ships will only allow service animals on board in the summer. Be sure to check with the individual carrier if you are planning to transport your pet.
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Don't take your pet to crowded summer events. The noise, the crowds and the heat can be stressful for your pet. Events with loud noise, such as firecrackers, frighten many pets.
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On the hottest days, limit exercise to early morning and evening hours. The ground beneath your pet's paws can get very hot.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure your pet is wearing a collar and identification tag at all times.
If your pet scratches more than usual or chews its paws, take your pet to the vet to have her checked for allergies.
Allow your pet to eat less during the heat.
If your pet is outdoors during the day, provide shade and lots of cool water.
Very fast panting, skin hot to the touch, twitching, and a dazed look are signs of heatstroke. Get immediate medical attention for your pet.
