When it is hot out as Chico is known for during the summer. You need to keep in mind your pets will need to be kept cool especially during the hottest part of the day.
In this article, we cover ways to keep your dog cool during the summer both indoors and our, signs of dehydration and heat exhaustion as well as what to do if your pet has heat exhaustion.
How to Keep Your Dog Cool
Never Leave Your Dog In The Car
The temp in a car will soar in just a few minutes. During the summer leave your dog at home or only go places where she can stay with you.
Make sure they have plenty of water
Make sure your dog has access to plenty of water. If you are going to be gone for any length of time leave out an extra water bowl.
Make Pupsicles
Get some popsicle molds then add meat, berries, greens. Add a broth — beef, chicken, vegetable, mushroom, bone broth, or Kefir. Add an edible hand such as a carrot, chicken foot and put into the freezer. After they have frozen let your dog enjoy them.
Sprinklers or a Kiddie Pool
Some dogs love to play in the sprinklers. Many dogs although not all love to get into a kiddie pool to cool off when it gets hot out.
Play Fetch in the Creek or Lake
Some dogs love to play fetch and enjoy swimming after a ball, frisbee or other floating toys in the creek or lake. Be careful not to overdo it.
Go for Walks Early in the Morning
Any exercise should be done early in the morning during the cooler hours of the day. Both you and your dog will enjoy your walk more if you walk before it gets hot.
Carry enough water for both of you to stay hydrated.
Check the payment by touching your hand and leaving it for 10 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand it will be too hot for your dogs’ paws.
Cooling Pad
Some dogs enjoy laying on a cooling pad when the temperatures rise to help keep them cool.
Air Conditioning
Keep your air conditioner on and turned down. A fan can help circulate the air and keep it cooler for your dog.
Blinds/Curtains
If your dog is home during the day keep your blinds and curtains closed. If your dog enjoys looking out the window during the day keep one windows blinds or curtains open and close the others.
Grooming
A summer haircut can help but never shave a dog more than one inch from the skin.
If your dog has a double coat you may not want to shave them. Some drawbacks can be lack of insulation, decreased sun protection and the inner coat can take years to regain their natural look.
Dogs at High-Risk To Heatstroke
- Old and really young dogs
- Short-nosed/brachycephalic dogs
- Overweight dogs
- Dogs with thick/long fur
Signs Of Heatstroke
During the summer in Chico, it can be very easy for your dog to suffer from heat stroke in a very short time.
- Raised temperature – 101.5 is normal
- Heavy panting
- Thickened saliva
- Trouble breathing
- Rapid heartbeat
- Dark or red gums and tongue
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Agitation
If you see any of these signs get them to a vet right away.
