They say only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun, but even mad (or sad, or glad) dogs should probably stay inside when the temperature climbs too high.
They say only mad dogs and Englishmen go out in the midday sun, but even mad (or sad, or glad) dogs should probably stay inside when the temperature climbs too high. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can wreak utter havoc on your canine friend, but there are a few things you can do to keep your dog cool and safe this summer. Walking your dog either at dusk or dawn (or as close to that as possible) can help limit their exposure to the sun, which will keep them cooler and, in the case of lighter colored dogs, prevent sunburn. Always keep plenty of water available to your pets—Dr. Phillips recommends ice water if it’s really hot out—and if they have to be outside, make sure they have shade to retreat to. You can also get your pup a cooling mat; if you need one quicker than Amazon can get it to you, lay a cool, damp towel on top of a trash bag or other piece of plastic. If you’re planning to take your pup out at all in the summer sun, you need to stay vigilant for the signs of heat distress. “Heavy panting, looking anxious, salivating, and changes in gum color can all indicate heat exhaustion or stroke,” Dr. Phillips explained, adding “once they hit 104℉, you need to do something.” Getting your pet to the vet is important, but cooling them down as quickly as possible is even more important. “Wipe the bottom of their paws with a cool wet cloth—wet with water, not rubbing alcohol, which can dry out the pads—or dip their feet into water if you can, and pour cool water on the neck, being sure you quit cooling once they reach 103℉,” then get them to the vet as soon as you can.
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