As I’m writing this April has just begun and the weather here in Donegal in Ireland is just lovely, reaching a stunning 20 degrees today and to be higher over the coming week.
Now as much as I love the sunny weather like everyone else, this seems to be a new trend year on year, hotter & hotter! Call it global warming or call it whatever you wish, the fact is our weather is getting hotter here in Ireland and we as pet parents need to be prepared to help keep our canine pals a bit cooler when the temperature rises!
With this in mind we threw together a quick ‘Summer Safety Tips‘ list & graphics to help keep your dogs cooler in the hotter weather! You don’t need to do all of these but some are more important to remember that others!
Walks & Exercise
1. Walking – the best advice is if it feels too hot then skip your walk for the day. No dog ever died by missing a walk or two but they could from heat exhaustion.
2. If you must walk your dog in hot weather then try to avoid the hottest part of the day – midday; walk early morning or late in the evening when its cooler & there is shade.
3. Dogs that are older or overweight can suffer more in hotter weather. So reduce the length of their exercise & walks according.
4. Make sure all walks & exercise are supervised to help prevent overexertion & exhaustion.
5. Do not walk your dog on hot pavements, it’s too hot for their paws. Feel it on your own hand to check and see!
Feeding
1. In hotter weather it is best to feed your dog in the evening as it is cooler.
2. It is also recommended to feed your dog after they have had their daily exercise.
3. Some dogs can lose their appetite during hotter weather. That’s OK.
4. Fresh water should always be available & in hotter weather it is advisable to make sure its in a shady spot. If traveling always make sure to bring water with you and stop frequently for a break.
5. In the hotter weather dogs may drink more and hence urine more.
Keeping your dog cooler…
1. Grooming is the first on our list here. Give your pooch a good groom/brush to remove loose hair to help with keeping their body temperature cooler.
2. Make sure your dog always has access to shade when outside.
3. Frozen Kongs, Lickimats or similar products can help cool your dog down as well as providing enrichment & fun!
4. Get a padding pool! The perfect way to cool down and have a lot of fun in the sun! Our dachshunds love it when the pool comes out!
5. A Cooling mat in a shady area is also a good way to keep your dog cooler. If you don’t have a cooling mat wet towels laid out can also be a good substitute.
These are some tips but not an exhaustive list by any means. Older dogs and short snout breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs etc) will always find warmer weather a bigger struggle, so you should adjust their routines accordingly. If your dog is acting ‘out of the norm’ then do contact your vet immediately.
It’s always best to be on the safe side & enjoy the sun responsibly!
Source: Dogs Trust Ireland
