Dog Days: Protecting Your Pet from Heat Stroke

The “dog days of summer” always seem to come early here in Central Texas. We’ve already seen some triple-digit days, and that’s just the beginning. Heat stroke is a killer, so here are some tips from the Sit Means Sit team to help you keep Fido safe this summer:

Provide Water

Dehydration can occur awfully fast on a hot day, and your dog’s water bowl will go bone-dry in an alarmingly short amount of time. Keep an eye on it and be prepared to refill it several times over the course of a hot day.

Provide Shade

Your pet needs a shady area to shield him from the sun’s unforgiving rays. Hanging a tarp or shade covering from a hardware store can help, or you could take the opportunity to install that patio awning you’ve always wanted. Even a big leafy tree is better than nothing.

Cool Your Dog Off

While you’re buying the tarp, why not pick up a plastic kiddie pool so your dog can take the occasional dip? We bet he’ll enjoy it! Some dogs are also fond of ice, so try throwing some ice cubes onto the deck or yard for your pal to roll around on.

Don’t “Dog and Drive”

You’d be amazed how many owners accidentally kill their pets by leaving them in a hot car. Even a few minutes in that oven-like atmosphere can prove fatal, so unless your dog gets out of the car when you do, just leave him safe at home!

Keep Brachycephalic Dogs Indoors

If you have a Pug or another short-nosed breed, don’t let your dog go out on hot days except for brief walks in the morning and evening. These animals are particularly vulnerable to high temperatures.

Have a great, safe summer!