With this bank holiday being so beautifully warm, we thought we would share with you some top tips to keep your working dogs cool.
Our four-legged friends can find this weather tough. Some dogs are still shedding what’s left of their winter coats, and the weather is unusually hot. Here’s what we can do to help.
Our Top Tips
Access To Drinking Water
When temperatures rise, so does thirst. Put out extra water and add a few ice cubes to keep it cool.
Water When Walking
On a hot day, your dog will appreciate access to water when walking. Offer small sips frequently to keep them hydrated. We use a dish that collapses and we carry enough water for us and our best buddies.
Keep Training Times To Early Morning Or Evening
Training when the weather is hot can be hard work for you and your dog. The heat feels uncomfortable but also affects scent. Remember that you’re probably not going to get a productive session from a dog who just wants to lay in the shade. If you must train do some water-based training activities and keep the session short.
Give Your Dog A Paddling Pool
Working Dogs usually love water so access to a shallow water source to lie in will be greeted with doggy joy. A small baby paddling pool or an old baby bath with a few inches will be enough for them to cool down in the garden or the kennel will offer great relief when they feel too warm.
Give Water Hidden in Treats
Dogs love to munch on fruits and veg. The great thing is they have water content too. Here’s a link to A LIST OF FRUITS AND VEGETABLES you can give to your dog whatever the weather.
Make Sure Your Dog Has Shade
Just like you, your dog likes to lounge in a shady spot. Allow them to find a place that’s comfortable and leave them to rest. Make sure adults and children leave them alone to cool down. Sunglasses are optional 🙂
How To Tell If Your Got Has Heatstroke or Dehydration
Just like humans, dogs can suffer from heatstroke and dehydration too. Keep an eye out for the following indicators and if in doubt seek veterinary advice.
Below is an extensive link of symptoms as outlined by the vet authored and approved Pet MD.
- Panting
- Dehydration
- Excessive drooling (PTYALISM)
- Increased body temperature – above 103° F (39° C)
- Reddened gums and moist tissues of the body
- Production of only small amounts of urine or no urine
- Sudden (acute) kidney failure
- Rapid heart rate
- Irregular heart beats
- Shock
- Stoppage of the heart and breathing (cardiopulmonary arrest)
- Fluid build-up in the lungs; sudden breathing distress (TACHYPNEA)
- Blood-clotting disorder(s)
- Vomiting blood (HEMATEMESIS)
- Passage of blood in the bowel movement or stool
- Black, tarry stools
- Small, pinpoint areas of bleeding
- Generalized (systemic) inflammatory response syndrome
- Disease characterized by the breakdown of red-muscle tissue
- Death of liver cells
- Changes in mental status
- SEIZURES
- Muscle tremors
- Wobbly, incoordinated or drunken gait or movement (ATAXIA)
- Unconsciousness in which the dog cannot be stimulated to be awakened
‘The most common symptom of dehydration is the loss of elasticity in the skin. When pulled lightly, the skin will not readily come back to its original place. Another alarming symptom is xerostomia, in which the gums lose moistness and become dry and sticky, and the saliva becomes thick. In advanced dehydration, the eyes sink in and the dog may collapse with shock’
Symptom Checker
An online tool that can help you to check out your dog’s symptoms is the PETMD SYMPTOM CHECKER.
Whilst this is a great tool, if you are concerned about your dog please seek the advice of your vet.
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