The usual reminder returning again -to take care of our dogs in summer heat.
Dogs can't sweat like we do, they can only lose excess heat by panting, and this does not work very well if it's too hot.
Cats can find shady places to lurk when it's hot weather, but dogs are usually at the mercy of whatever their caretaker has in mind for the day!
So here are the reminders again:
*Please don't leave a dog in a car. Even a fairly mild day can cause temperatures to rise quite high inside a car. Cracked-open windows don't help, and neither does leaving a bowl of water. If it's a warm day or even just a little sunny don't take the dog with you if it has to be 'parked' for any amount of time.
*When on dog walks take a plastic bottle of water and a lightweight bowl. In the summer, I used to carry this in a light back-pack. Not too much weight, and the least you can do for a thirsty dog while on a trek, or even after a game at the dog park. Wetting the dog's fur will definitely also help to keep it cool. Wet the belly area and inner thighs also.
*Remember that any wild dog -or most wild animals come to that -will seek shade during the warmest times of day, and rest. The only reason our dog is out panting in the sun with us is because we have brought it there. Don't over-exercise the dog when it is hot and/or very humid.
*Good times for running, frisbee, and brisk walks are very early morning, and during the light evenings. (Unless you live in Lapland or Antarctica! LOL)
Happy Summer, doggies!
Dogs can't sweat like we do, they can only lose excess heat by panting, and this does not work very well if it's too hot.
Cats can find shady places to lurk when it's hot weather, but dogs are usually at the mercy of whatever their caretaker has in mind for the day!
So here are the reminders again:
*Please don't leave a dog in a car. Even a fairly mild day can cause temperatures to rise quite high inside a car. Cracked-open windows don't help, and neither does leaving a bowl of water. If it's a warm day or even just a little sunny don't take the dog with you if it has to be 'parked' for any amount of time.
*When on dog walks take a plastic bottle of water and a lightweight bowl. In the summer, I used to carry this in a light back-pack. Not too much weight, and the least you can do for a thirsty dog while on a trek, or even after a game at the dog park. Wetting the dog's fur will definitely also help to keep it cool. Wet the belly area and inner thighs also.
*Remember that any wild dog -or most wild animals come to that -will seek shade during the warmest times of day, and rest. The only reason our dog is out panting in the sun with us is because we have brought it there. Don't over-exercise the dog when it is hot and/or very humid.
*Good times for running, frisbee, and brisk walks are very early morning, and during the light evenings. (Unless you live in Lapland or Antarctica! LOL)
Happy Summer, doggies!
