Morristown, TN
Summer heat can be a health risk for pets as well as people. Your dog doesn’t perspire the way that humans do. That makes overheating a significant risk once the weather warms. Today on the blog, your dog boarding professionals in Jefferson City examine some of the ways you can keep your dog healthy this summer, and how we help our four-legged clients beat the heat at our facility.
Avoid peak sunshine hours
Even though temperatures may not reach their peak until late afternoon or early evening on hot summer days, for your dog, the most dangerous time of day is between 11 a.m., and 1 p.m., when the sun is highest in the sky. If your dog has dark fur, this can heighten the effects of the sun. Consider bringing your dog indoors during this time of day or, at minimum, ensuring they have access to a shaded area of decent size – the larger the dog, the larger this shaded area should be.
Keep water available
We need to make sure to be hydrated when the weather is hotter. The same goes for your dog. Ensure they have access to drinkable water at all times and keep their bowl full whenever possible. A word of warning, though, as gulping down too much water after being out in the heat could make your dog throw up.
Keep your dog properly groomed
It’s common for dogs to grow excess hair during the winter to help them stay warm but that can make it more likely for them to overheat during the warmer months. Your dog probably sheds some of that excess hair naturally, but by brushing them regularly, you’ll remove any excess hair and help them stay relatively cool throughout the summer.
Be mindful of hot pavement and asphalt
Even on a scorching summer day, you might not be aware of how hot sidewalks can get. Rest assured, if you were walking barefoot, you would find out fast! Your dog’s feet can become seriously injured by walking on hot pavement or asphalt. Try walking your dog in the grass or avoid walking them in the hottest parts of the day, when the sun exposure is at its greatest.
Never leave your dog in a car on a hot day
When the temperature is 80 or above outside, the temperature in a closed car can accelerate greatly in a matter of minutes. This extreme heat can be fatal to your dog. Either leave the engine running and the air conditioner on, or save that car ride with your four-legged friend for early in the morning or at night after the sun has set.
Be aware of the signs of overheating
It’s better to treat an overheated dog in the early stages than wait and have a situation become serious or possibly life-threatening. Signs of potential heatstroke in dogs include excessive panting, a rapid heartbeat, seizure, vomiting, excessive thirst, having a purple tongue, and lethargy up to and including unconsciousness.
Temperature controlled dog boarding in East Tennessee
At AllDogs Canine Care Center, we understand the threat of heat to the health of dogs. That’s why each of our dog kennels is air conditioned, as is our indoor play area. Many of our kennels also have a private outdoor space accessed through a large walkthrough opening, allowing your four-legged friend to come in and out of the sunshine as they please. Rest assured, we’re committed to safe and mindful care for our clients in the “dog days” of summer and throughout the year. To find out more about our boarding services, call (865) 475-2225 today or contact us online.