Tips for Cooling Your Dog in the Orlando Heat

The Florida heat is brutal, and it can be life threatening to not only humans but pets! We love to be outside to walk and play, but it’s important to be aware of what to do to keep our pets safe during the summer heat.

• Don’t leave pets outside for extended periods of time. Animals pant to evaporate moisture from their lungs, which takes heat away from their bodies. If the humidity is too high, they are unable to cool themselves, and their temperature will rise to dangerously high levels. Extreme temperatures can cause heatstroke! Signs of heatstroke are: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting and a deep red or purple tongue.
• Fresh and clean water! Anytime your pup is outside, be sure their is a source of fresh clean water for them to hydrate. Make sure the water is changed on a regular basis. Throw in a couple ice cubes to keep it cool!
• Keep pets off of hot surfaces. We all know how hot our driveways can get in the blazing sun. Imagine feeling that heat on your bare paw! It’s best to find a shaded area for your pet to hang out if he can’t be inside.
• NEVER leave your pet in a parked car! Did you know temperatures inside a vehicle can rise rapidly to dangerous levels. Within 10 minutes an 85-degree day can reach 102 degrees, inside a car with the windows opened slightly. Your pup may suffer organ damage or die. If you see a pet in a parked car please inform the police.

Follow these helpful tips to keep your pets safe this summer! If you have any tips for keeping your dog cool during the warm days, we would love to hear from you.