Hot Dog? No Thanks! How to Keep Your Pup Cool This Weekend

Heads up, dog people, this weekend’s forecast is HOT.  So hot your weather app just says: “good luck!”.  Temps are heading into the 90s, and while we can flop in front of a fan with an iced coffee, our pups are counting on us to keep them safe.

Here’s how to make sure your dog stays cool as a cucumber.

NO CAR SAUNAS, PLEASE

We’ve all heard it, but it’s worth shouting again: NEVER leave your dog in the car. Not even with the windows cracked, or for just a few minutes.  Cars become four-wheeled ovens faster than you can say “venti cold brew.”

WALKIES AT DAWN (OR DUSK)

Sunrise and sunset are your new best friends; skip the lunchtime lava walk.  An early morning sniff walk makes it easier for your dog to settle quietly while they’re stuck inside. Check the pavement with your hand, if it’s too hot for you, it’s definitely too hot for their toe beans.

HYDRATION STATION

Keep those water bowls topped up and toss in a few ice cubes. And don’t forget, shade moves during the day, so make sure there’s always a cool hangout spot.

SPLISH SPLASH

A kiddie pool creates an instant summer spa day. Your dog may appreciate a damp towel, or a cooling mat, and a stuffed frozen Kong is an excellent long lasting cool treat.

KNOW THE DANGER SIGNS

Dogs are basically walking around in fur coats 24/7, and their main cooling system, panting, is way less efficient than our human sweat glands.  That means they can overheat FAST. 

Watch out for the telltale signs: heavy panting, drooling like they just ran a marathon, wobbling, vomiting, diarrhea, or bright red gums/tongue. If you spot any of these, take immediate action!

• Move them somewhere cooler (use a fan to create a breeze).

• Offer small sips of cool water (no chugging contests).

• Apply damp, cool towels to the neck, armpits, and groin.

• Call your vet immediately. If things don’t improve within a few minutes, get to the nearest emergency clinic. Even if your pup perks up, your vet may want you to come in anyway to check for organ damage or other complications.

SPECIAL CARE FOR SPECIAL PUPS

Brachycephalic dogs like pugs or bulldogs already have compromised airways, they are especially vulnerable during heatwaves.  Puppies, seniors, black dogs, and overweight dogs are also especially at risk. Keep their outdoor adventures short and sweet.

INDOOR FUN = COOL FUN

When it’s too hot to hang outside, swap walkies for brain games! Puzzle toys, snuffle mats, frozen Kongs, or short training games are a fantastic way to tire out your pup without breaking a sweat. A little enrichment goes a long way and if you’d like some extra support with fun tricks training, I’ve got you covered. I offer positive, game-based training that keeps dogs engaged, happy, and learning.  Visit me at www.tailsdogtraining.com