Hello everybody, it’s me again, your local heat expert. If you remember last year, I wrote about the effects heat can have on your laptop. If you need a refresher, I’ll wait ….
Now that you’re caught up I want to provide another Public Service Announcement. This summer, it’s time to talk about how heat affects our furry friends. If you haven’t noticed by now, I’m the proud owner of a pup named Wesley (yes I know I’ve mentioned him in every blog I’ve written, but who’s counting 😊). It’s ridiculously hot outside, and extreme heat can be dangerous for dogs. I’d like to share some info and tips to help navigate these conditions so little Bethesda, Lucy, Riley, Wesley, etc. won’t get cooked like the last scene in Total Recall. (Nope, not going to link it, google at your own discretion.)
This list may be obvious, but they are good reminders:
– Do not leave pets in cars! It is an actual deathtrap! In this heat, keeping the windows down won’t help. When temperatures outside range from 80 to 100 degrees, the temperature inside a car parked in sunlight can climb to between 130 and 172 degrees.
– Bring water wherever you take your pets. On walks or trips, make sure they are hydrated.
– Take them on walks in the morning or at night when it’s the coolest.
– The hot pavement can burn their paw pads! Walk in as much shade as possible.
– If your pup is overweight or old, keep them inside as much as possible. They will exhaust themselves trying to cool down and can lead to heart/lung problems.
– Watch out for areas treated with insecticides, weed sprays, snail baits, etc. These are poisonous. Also worth noting: radiator coolants and engine fluids are common street polluters during the summer. Keep your dogs away!
– A trip to the groomers for a summer cut is very helpful, and so chic!
In case you’re getting worried, here are the signs of dehydration:
– Sunken eyes
– Lethargy
– Dry mouth
– Depression
– Gently pinch a fold of skin at the top of the neck. Is it slow to snap back?
And lastly, here are some good tips I’ve found helpful:
– Make some DIY pupsicles. Dogs love peanut butter pops. Even ice cubes are great treats.
– Cooling vests, mats, or body wraps can help regulate dogs’ temperatures.
– Mini pools in your backyards aren’t just for kids. Most dogs enjoy them, too.
Hopefully, this PSA helps answer some important questions. Even if only it serves as a reminder, I think it is worth the mentioning. As a fellow animal lover, I want us all to be smart and safe with our four-legged friends. So spread the word.
Now, stay cool yourselves, drink plenty of water, and always enjoy summertime Chi!