Dogs regulate their body temperature differently from humans. They do not sweat through their skin the way humans do; instead, they only have sweat glands on their paw pads, between the toes.
Their main cooling mechanism is panting, which is far less effective than the full-body sweating humans rely on. As a result, dogs are more susceptible to overheating and require extra care in hot weather.
Ensuring your dog has access to fresh water at all times is crucial during the summer. Avoid ice-cold water, as it may cause thermal shock. For longer outings, bring a pet-friendly water bottle or a simple portable bowl so you can keep your dog hydrated throughout the day.
A fun way to help your dog stay hydrated is to freeze small pieces of fruit such as melon, watermelon, or banana. These frozen treats are both refreshing and enjoyable for your pet.
Whenever possible, head to wooded areas for your walks, where the shade from trees and cooler ground can help prevent overheating. Avoid taking your dog out during the hottest part of the day, especially if you have to cross hot surfaces like tarmac. The smaller your dog, the more vulnerable they are to heat radiating off the ground.
Encourage your dog to walk on grass, paving stones, or cool tiles whenever you can. Alternatively, you can purchase protective booties designed to shield their paws from hot pavements.
Once home, gently rinsing your dog’s paws with lukewarm water can help lower their body temperature and soothe their feet after exposure to the heat.
To help your dog stay comfortable indoors, keep blinds or curtains closed during the day, just as you would for yourself. Ideally, give your dog access to a tiled room, as tiles stay cool and provide a pleasant surface for them to stretch out and relax.
For an added cooling effect, dampen a towel, wring it out, and place it in a shaded spot for your dog to lie on. However, never place a wet towel on your dog’s back, as this can trap heat and actually raise their body temperature.
Heatstroke is a medical emergency that can present with symptoms such as frantic panting, excessive or frothy drooling, dark red gums, and unsteady walking.
If you notice any of these signs, move your dog to a shaded area, offer them water but do not force them to drink, and contact your veterinarian immediately.
