Managing Your Dog's Health During the Summer Heat
As temperatures soar during the summer, many pet owners worry about their dogs suffering from heatstroke. To prevent this, some owners reduce their dogs' walking time.
However, cutting back on exercise can easily result in insufficient physical activity and build-up of stress in dogs, which is detrimental to their overall health.
It's important to find a balance that keeps your dog safe from overheating while still providing enough exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being.
In fact, as long as you make these four thorough preparations before walking your dog, your furry friend can happily enjoy walks even in the summer!
1. Check Ground Temperature Before Walking Your Dog
Before taking your dog for a walk, make sure to check the temperature of the ground by feeling it with your hand. If the surface feels hot to the touch, it means the heat is intense enough to burn your dog's paws.
It's not only asphalt you should be cautious about; even dirt paths and grassy areas can reach temperatures as high as 50°C (122°F) during the day.
Since your dog's paw pads are very sensitive, if the ground feels too hot, it's best to wait until later when the temperature has cooled down before heading outside.
2. Preparing Safety Gear for Walking Your Dog
Since going out during the day can be too hot and sunny, many people choose to walk their dogs early in the morning or at night. However, the lighting at these times is insufficient, so it's important to prepare reflective gear for your dog. This can include glowing leashes and collars that light up.
Dog owners should also wear reflective accessories themselves and carry a flashlight to ensure the safety of both parties. The good news is that these items can be purchased at affordable stores for just a few dollars. If you don't have time to prepare in advance, simply turning on your phone's flashlight can also help keep you and your dog safe!
3. Protecting Your Dog's Paws in Hot Weather
If you absolutely have to take your dog out on a very hot day, consider using paw protection to keep them safe. One effective option is applying anti-slip pads to your dog's paws. Although these products are primarily meant to provide traction and prevent slipping, they also offer a slight barrier against heat, helping to protect your dog's paw pads from getting burned.
Additionally, socks or shoes designed for dogs are another form of paw protection. However, it's important to gradually get your dog accustomed to wearing them, as they might have difficulty walking at first. If your dog can adapt to wearing socks or shoes comfortably, they can serve as a reliable backup solution for paw protection during hot weather.
4. Keep the Air Conditioning On Indoors Before Going Out
During summer, even a brief walk can cause a dog's body temperature to rise quickly. This is especially true for pets with heart or respiratory conditions, who are more vulnerable to overheating and breathing difficulties.
To help your dog stay comfortable and safe, it's recommended to turn on the air conditioning at home before you head out. This way, when your dog returns, they can immediately cool down and rest in a comfortable environment.
