How to help a dog survive the heat and what not to do
How to help a dog survive the heat and what not to do
It is worth noting that these measures will only help with overheating. If there is a serious sun or heat shock, you should show your pet to the vet as soon as possible.
How can you not protect your dog from the heat?
- You can't water your back and head if your dog might be in the sun!
- Do not immerse your entire dog in cold water! So first let your dog get used to the water temperature without letting him go deep in the water. Let him stand with his paws in the water and then dive into the puzzle.
- You can't put ice compresses on your dog!
- You can't drink ice water!
- You can't cover a dog with a wet cloth on top! Short-term wraps in a cool wet cloth may be necessary but always check by sticking your hand under the cloth to see if your dog is getting hotter than he was. If your dog's coat is getting warm rather than cool, remove the cloth immediately.
- Don't cut off fluffy dogs until their hair is very short! The coat is a natural protection for your dog from the sun.
How do you help your dog in the heat?
- Try to walk early in the morning and late in the evening and keep your dog from moving too actively.
- If he has to go out in the sun, make sure you bring cool water and a bowl. Avoid the asphalt and only walk in the shade.
- Bring a bottle of cold water for a walk. If your dog shows signs of shortness of breath - tongue sticking out very hard and breathing fast - wet his chest between his paws, belly, armpits, and groin and soak his coat with your hands as best you can to reach the skin. Don't get your head and back wet!
- If your dog is in the cooling bum, stick your hand under the bum every half hour. Your dog should be slightly cooler than the ambient air.
- If you're driving your dog in a car without air conditioning or if it's very, very hot in your home, cooling mats are good. The best ones are those that have a special filler.
- Make sure your dog always has cool, fresh water available.
- If you need to put a muzzle on your dog, avoid wearing tight muzzles, especially nylons!
- Do not leave your dog in the car without a running air conditioner!!!