Yup, it’s hot. What’s a dog owner to do? Here are some suggestions to stay safe and cool for the next few months.
Avoid midday outdoor activity
Play early, late or indoors. Walking your dog in the heat of the day is a really bad idea. Just because you can handle it does not mean your dog can. Humans sweat to cool off. Dogs do not sweat. Additionally, dogs on leash will also tend to try and keep up with their humans no matter what, even if their bodies are telling them they should stop. Don’t put your dog in that position.
Trade the midday walk for an indoor game of fetch, tug or a tricks training session (your overheated dog walker will love you for it too). Training a roll over can be as exhausting as a good walk anyway.
Know the signs of overheating
Watch for signs of overheating such as excessive panting, bright red or purple tongue, confusion, and wobbling when walking. If you notice these signs get your dog indoors immediately and contact your vet. Never bathe an overheated dog in cold water. Cool wet rags on the stomach or inside of the thighs will help to cool them down. If your dog has fallen or seems confused, take your dog to urgent care or the emergency vet.
Is your dog is brachycephalic (flat faced)? Since dogs don’t sweat, they cool down by breathing and panting. Flat-faced dogs like pugs, bulldogs and boxers are not able to shed heat in the same way as a dog with a longer snout. For these dogs, overheating can be fatal… fast. Don’t take any chances.
Go for a swim
Wading and swimming is a great way for your dog to exercise while keeping cool at the same time. Arlington has two terrific dog parks along Four Mile Run: Shirlington Dog Park and Glen Carlyn Dog Park. Both have small beach areas near deeper swimming holes where dogs can wade or swim to keep cool. There are also some private pools that can be rented by the hour for the serious canine athlete. A backyard kiddie pool is also a great idea and a lot of fun.
Don’t leave your dog in the car
I hope this is obvious, but never leave your dog alone in the car at this time of year. Not with the windows down, not under a tree. The outside temperature should be 60 degrees or lower before it is safe to leave a dog in the car, so we have several months before this is an option again. Leave your dog home, or leave someone in the car with the AC running. No exceptions.
Have fun, stay cool, and enjoy the season! Fall will be here soon enough.
Originally published on ArlNow.com, July 2014
