How Can I Keep My Dog Cool in the Summer?

If you’re like most dog lovers, you may be wondering how hot is too hot for your canine pal. And with summer at hand, knowing how to keep him cool is important. If you’re like us, you want your pet to be as comfortable and happy as possible, and who wouldn’t want their dog to be happy?

There are many things that can affect your dog’s health in the summer. Temperature, humidity, and wind all have a big effect on how hot (or cold) your dog feels when outside. Read on as a veterinarian shares tips for keeping Fido cool in the summer heat.

Heatstroke in Dogs

Heatstroke is a serious condition that can occur if your dog is exposed to high temperatures for too long. Dogs get hotter than humans, but they also have a very difficult time cooling down. This is because they have a higher surface area to body weight ratio than humans, and they sweat less. 

Symptoms of heat stroke in dogs include:

• Excessive gasping
• A high body temperature (above 102 degrees Fahrenheit)
• Sudden collapse/coma
• Disorientation, confusion, lack of coordination

Heatstroke can have severe consequences on a dog’s health and well-being. When a dog’s body temperature rises above its normal range, it can cause damage to the internal organs, leading to organ failure and even death. Heatstroke can also cause brain damage, seizures, and respiratory distress. 

If you suspect your dog has heat stroke, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Tips for Keeping Fido Cool in the Heat

So what can you do? Well, there are a few things that we recommend:

• Make sure he always has enough water 
• Always treat any injury or illness first. Your dog will thank you later.
• If you have an air conditioner or fan in your home, be sure to put your pup near it while they sleep so they can get some relief from the heat.
• If you do spend time outdoors with your dog, seek shade whenever possible. This helps prevent sunburn and keeps their skin healthy and moisturized.
• If you’re out at night and it’s still very hot outside, consider putting a cooling coat or vest on your dog so he doesn’t get too hot when running around, playing with friends, or chasing squirrels. 

If you have more questions or wish to schedule Fido for a checkup, feel free to call us, your local vet in Waterdown, ON today!