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Don’t let the heat get to you! What you and your dog need to keep from overheating.

Earlier this month, we covered the impact Summer’s high heat (among other things) can have on our dogs’ appetites. We really didn’t touch on if the Summer’s heat was truly causing health concerns. A dog in heat exhaustion is no bueno.

Given we have over a week left in August and likely a warm September in most parts of the country, let’s help our best friend beat the rest of the heat!

Keeping your dogs cool and preventing overheating is crucial for their health and well-being.

But first, we must know we have a problem. What does an overheated dog look like? Dogs can exhibit a variety of behaviors and physical signs to show us they are in distress.

Excessive panting can be the first sign that a dog is trying to cool down. Panting can be normal especially after exercise, but it is typically more excessive, intense and for longer durations when a dog is overheating.

A dog that is overheated can also be acting lethargic and weaker than normal. Or they could be uninterested in some of their favorite things like treats during the day, running through the sprinklers, playing with their favorite toys or greeting visitors at the door. You know that ratty toy your dog keeps finding in the trash? She wouldn’t be even remotely interested if she had overheated!

So what do we do? It really can be terrifying knowing that your best friend is in distress. Here are a few tips to help keep your dogs (and maybe you) from overheating and some considerations for if they have already overheated.

Things to do as a precaution before your dog has overheated

• H2O: Ensure your dog has access to fresh water at all times. Being well hydrated throughout the day will help avoid heat exhaustion. Keep those water bowls full!

• Your Schedule: You may consider changing your daily schedule. If you like to walk over lunch, in the afternoon or after work, you may want to walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are cooler. If you have to walk during a hotter time, keep your walk short and not as strenuous.

• Try to be Shady: If your dog likes to spend time outside, make sure there is ample shade where they can rest. Patios, trees, umbrellas, or even doghouses can help.

• Say No to Quick Errands: You know that quick errand you need to run while your dog is in the car? You may want to rethink that! Depending on where you live, it does not take too long before your car can get terribly hot. Leave your best friend at home if you have to run into the grocery store.

• Leave the Shag for Cooler Months:Keeping your dog well groomedhelps keep your dog’s coat in good condition, which may help with temperature regulation. But, you need to know your dog well. There are some breeds with fur that actually help protect them from the heat.

Things to do if your dog has already overheated

• Cool Areas: Don’t waste time. Move your dog into a cooler area. Consider a cool darker room inside if moving inside is not an option look for a shadier area.
• Cool Your Dog Gradually: Don’t panic and avoid drastic measures such as ice or cool baths. You want to cool them down gradually. Use cool water or cool damp cloth and work them around your dog’s body. Areas such as the head, neck, armpits and legs could be good areas to focus on.
• Avoid Any Medications: Don’t overcomplicate the issue by adding any medications such as those to help reduce fevers. Unless your dog has been prescribed any medication for exhaustion, it may be good to stay away from any others.
• Temperature Check: Normal temperature for a dog is 101-102°F. If you have one, use a dog thermometer to manage to a normal temperature.
• Seek Your Veterinarian: It would be good to keep your veterinarian in the loop. Give the doctor a call to let them know your dog’s situation, what you are doing or what you have done and your dog’s current well-being. Even if your dog seems to have recovered, it may be good to talk to your vet.

We hope you are never in a situation where your dog has overheated. Be on the lookout for the symptoms of overheating and use your best judgment to prevent or treat overexhaustion!

And if you missed our last Blog “Why isn’t my dog eating as much in the Summer” be sure to check it out.

Cooler months will be here before we know it!