Arrival of summer time means you get to do plenty of outdoor activities with your dog. Walks are ideal when it comes to giving your dog daily exercise. However, dog hydration is an important issue: high temperatures during the summer can be harmful for your pup. Here are a few ways you can keep your dog cool this summer in NYC. The following tips will help your pup avoid getting heat strokes on dog walks during the summer.
1. Dog Hydration: Carry Water during Walks
The summer heat can be quite harsh on your dog. Give him plenty of water to drink during walks. You can add ice cubes to keep the water cool. Keep an eye out for any signs of heat stroke, such as heavy panting, dizziness, or sluggish behavior. If you notice any of these signs, stop and offer him water in the shade. If he refuses to drink water, you can pour water over him to cool him down.
2. Touch the Pavement
Pavement can get quite hot when the sun is at its peak. Before heading out on dog walks, always check the pavement with the palm of your hand. If it feels too hot, you can take your dog out to walk on the grass. You can also have him wear booties to prevent his paws from burning.
3. Walk in a Shaded Area
During dog walks, you and your dog can take shade beneath trees when the heat gets too much. Make sure you choose cool places like is big bear luxury cabin to take your dog on walks. Dogs do not sweat like humans to release heat, they pant to release heat. Keep an eye on the humidity level, since humid air makes it harder for your dog to pant. This can raise his body temperature, leading to heat strokes. It is best to avoid walks during midday since it is extremely hot at that time. Instead, opt for early morning walks or late evening walks.
4. Look for Signs of Heat Stroke
Exposure to excessive heat can lead to heat strokes. Heat strokes in dogs can be life threatening. Contact your Veterinarian if you notice any symptoms of heat stroke. Heavy panting, intense drooling, dizziness, fainting, sluggish behavior, and a fast heartbeat are all signs of heat stroke. Certain breeds are more at-risk of getting sick from high temperatures. In particular, dogs who are overweight, elderly dogs, and dogs with pushed in noses, such as pugs and bull dogs. Dogs with pushed in noses have small airways. These small airways make it much more difficult for them to pant and release excessive heat.
Summer is a fun season to be outdoors with your dog. You can enjoy time together at the park, at the beach, or hiking upstate. No matter where you go, don’t forget the importance of dog hydration and be prepared to keep your dog safe and cool in the hot sun by following all these tips.
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