Keeping your dog cool in summer

With the weather heating up for the summer there is always the danger of your dog overheating.  Dogs with heavy coats or dark hair can be especially susceptible.  Everyone knows about not leaving a dog in a car, even for a couple of minutes; but what about the rest of the day?

There are fantasic cool coats that you can buy for your dog; just soak in cold water and put on your dog, great when you are out and about.  At home you can have a paddling pool in the garden, but if you don't want that mess and water dragging through the house, open as many doors and windows as possible, put on a fan and enjoy the cool air with your dog.  Some dogs love to crunch on ice cubes or have a lactose free ice cream. Keep fresh water always available.

If you are going for a walk, choose the cooler parts of the day, early morning or late evening are good for dogs and people.  If you are going out in the heat of the day, be prepared.  Try to go somewhere that you know has water your dog can swim or paddle in and take water and towels with you.  If your dog is overheating you can offer a drink and you can soak the towels to put over your dog.

To quickly cool your dog you can pour cool water on to the inside of the thighs,  there are large blood vessels there that are close to the skin.

In an emergancy you will need to get your dog to a vet as quickly as possible, keep an eye on the colour of the mucus membranes in your dog's mouth and eyes. 

Be vigialant, even on car journeys, if you don't have air con in your car check your dog often,  it only takes 20 minutes for your dog to become seriously ill from the heat.

If you want to go out but think it's too hot for your dog ask about day care or home visiting.