WE all need to be careful of heat stroke during the soaring summer temperatures and while most dogs will shed fur in readiness for hot weather, they still need additional care to keep them healthy and comfortable during a heatwave.
When the mercury rises, it is always best to have your dog inside, or in a well-ventilated area of your home, providing them with a break from the sun. Although dogs will always sniff out the coolest sleeping spots in the house or the backyard, it is a good idea to place their beds or mats in the shadiest spot for extra encouragement.
By additionally wetting or dampening dog beds and blankets, your wet-nosed friend will stay just that. Your local pet store will also supply specially designed cool mats and cool jackets for your dog too, if you are worried about the damped bedding drying out.
A lukewarm bath is also another good way to lower your pet’s body temperature and to effectively avoid overheating, if he has worked himself up into a lather.
Freezing your pooch’s favourite pet treats into ‘pupsicles’ is a delicious way to spoil and keep your fury friend refreshed at the same time while coolable chew toys can also be found at your local pet store.
Taking your dog for a walk remains a must during the summer just as it does any other time of the year. In the summer heat a walk at sunrise or sunset is best, while avoiding the hot cement.
