Remember Your Pets in Hot Weather!

Like most Washingtonians I like the heat, but it’s getting a little too hot these days.  As most of us try to figure out how to keep cool we sometimes forget that man’s best friend is feeling it, too. 

 

We all know to keep water out for our dogs, but how often do you change it?  Experts say it is important to change their water frequently.  Makes sense doesn’t it?  I know I don’t like water that’s been sitting out in the sun or heat all day that may or may not have bugs and bacteria in it. 

Make sure your pup has some shade to lie in. Dogs can get sunburned.  If he’s going to be inside a cool floor is optimum; basements are a great place for him to cool off as the floors are usually nice and chilly.

If you’re taking him on a walk or to the play at the park/beach bring water for him, too!  Also, check the blacktop road or sand to see how hot it is.  Dogs’ pads are tough but can easily burn.  If the road is too hot for your bare feet, chances are Fido doesn’t want to walk on it, either.  Take him for walks early or late in the day, you will enjoy it more as well. 

Heat exhaustion is common in dogs.  It can happen anywhere.  They cool themselves by panting. If panting doesn’t cool them down heat stroke can develop.  Early signs are rapid breathing, heaving panting, salvation, fatigue and staggering.  If you see some of these signs get him some water and cool him off by applying a cool towel to his stomach area-NOT his head.

On a warm day, it takes only 10 minutes for the temperature inside a car to reach 120 degrees! Please, please understand that dogs should never be left in a car in hot weather. Plus, it is also against the law! Also, if you must put him in the bed of your pickup, check to see how hot the bed actually is.  He can burn his paws just as easily in the back of your truck as he can on the street.

 

For more helpful tips click here: http://budurl.com/vhuz

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