The Crazy Beagle is laying low these 100 degree days. I am lucky enough to have a owner who is smart and knows how to take care of me during these “dog days” of summer. We are walking less, no running, and drinking plenty of water.
My concern is for my fellow dogs owners who may way have have the information to keep their dogs safe during these hot days. The Crazy Beagle wants to share his three tips to keeping my fellow dogs cool, avoiding heatstroke, and staying safe during these “dog days” of summer:
- Don’t take your dog jogging—except on cool mornings or evenings—and don’t force exercise. On long walks, rest often and take plenty of water. Hot pavement can burn dogs’ paws; choose shady, grassy routes.
- Trim heavy-coated dogs’ fur, but leave an inch for protection against insects and sunburn. Keep an eye on areas where hair is thin, like eyelids, ears, and nose as they can get sunburned.
- Keep your dog indoors. If he or she must stay outside for long, avoid the hottest part of the day. Provide shade, water, and a kiddie pool. Keep drinking water in an anchored bucket or a heavy bowl that won’t tip over.
- Heatstroke can come on quickly and result in brain damage or death. Watch for symptoms such as restlessness, excessive thirst, heavy panting, lethargy, lack of appetite, dark tongue, rapid heartbeat, fever, vomiting, or lack of coordination. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, get her or him into the shade immediately and call your veterinarian. Lower the dog’s body temperature gradually by providing water to drink, applying a cold towel or ice pack to the head, neck, and chest, or immersing the dog in lukewarm (not cold) water.
For additional safety tips for your dog, go to the following link:
http://www.helpinganimals.com/pdfs/hotundercollar.pdf
The Crazy Beagle signing off and hoping that all my fellowing dogs stay cool and safe during these hot days.
XOXO. (smooches and licks)