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Digital Editor: Melody McKinnon 4

Many “hot dogs” campaigns run during the Summer in North America, but we’ve noticed very little activity when it’s Summer elsewhere (or with consideration to tropical climates).  Today’s guest author is committed to creating awareness of the dangers of Summer heat throughout the year.

Summer Dangers for Dogs: Tips to Protect your Dog in the Summer Heat

The summer is the perfect time to take your pet out in the sun, you can finally fully enjoy a walk with your dog without being rained on or frozen. But be warned, heat exhaustion is a common reason for dogs dying especially in the very hot heat of the summer sun. Heat exhaustion can tragically cause your dog to have a stroke or even die.

This post should inform you about the risk of heat exhaustion to dogs, signs of overheating and some tips to protect your dog from the heat.

Dogs Most At Risk From Heat ExhaustionFree Dogs Die In Hot Cars Poster Graphic

  • 0-6 month old puppies
  • Large dogs over 7 years
  • Small dogs over 14 years
  • Overweight dogs
  • Overexerted dogs (Dogs that have exercised or worked too hard)
  • Ill dogs, or dogs on medication
  • Dogs with heart disease or poor circulation, or previous related cases to it.
  • Smushed face dogs (brachycephalic dogs) like pugs, bulldogs, and Boston terriers
  • Heavy coated dogs in a climate they are not acclimatized to.
  • Dogs with underlying heart/lung disease
  • Dogs with hyperthyroidism (increased levels of thyroid hormone)

Heat Protection Tips

1. Never leave your dog in the car.

You should never leave your dog in the car. Not even with the windows down. A warm and sunny day can turn a car into an oven faster than you could imagine. It can reach boiling point in a matter of seconds.

2. Hydrate your pooch

Keep your pooch hydrated. When going out bring a spare bottle of water for your dog and water them regularly. Bring one of those fantastic travel bowls with you, they’re really smart and will fold away into your pocket easily.

3. Don’t walk your dog in the midday sun

Avoid walking your dog when the sun is at its highest. Though you might be missing out on the best sun tan, walking your dog in temperatures that hot could put your dog at risk. Stick to early morning or evening, and never force your dog to run after a meal in hot and humid weather.

4. Old, overweight, unwell and smushed nose dogs in the shade please.

Old and overweight dogs, and breeds of dogs with smushed noses like bulldogs and pugs are not made for the sun. Kindly keep them indoors or in the shade or they will become unwell baking in the sun.

5. Get a dog first aid kit just in case

Visit Vet-Medic to get first aid equipment. Stock up on them and should your dog show symptoms of heat exhaustion, use them straight away.

Signs of OverheatingKeep your dog cool while camping

  • Sluggishness
  • Unresponsiveness
  • Disorientation
  • Bright red gums, tongue, or eyes
  • Loud and excessive panting
  • High body temperature
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Tremors in their muscles
  • Uncoordinated movement
  • Extreme signs of overheating include vomiting, which could eventually lead to collapse, seizure, or coma.

Should your dog show any of these signs, be sure to call a veterinarian straight away and cool them down with water and wet towels, alternatively a hose down will work well too (but don’t shock them with freezing cold water). Give them plenty of water. Avoid ice as this may damage their skin.

Has your dog ever given you a scare in the heat?  Please share your experience in the comments below.

Guest Author Bio
Michael is a 23 year old graduate with a degree in Creative Writing.

✔ You may also be interested in reading:
Free Resources for a ‘Dogs Die in Hot Cars’ Campaign
Dogs Die in Hot Campers! [With Shareable Poster]

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4 thoughts on “Tips to Protect your Dog From the Summer Heat”

  1. I think people are finally getting the message because I see a lot less dogs in cars!

  2. That’s true that the campaigns are mostly during American summer. In australia we see warnings in local media but not global. Thanks for remembering us and caring about aniamls.

  3. I can’t believe how many people still place their animals in hot peril. Get educated and be responsible!

  4. Great advice for sure. I live in California where heat is always a concern. At least we’re getting rain now and the dogs enjoyed going out in it to cool down.

Comments are closed.