Keep Your Dog Cool During the Summer Heat

As temperatures rise throughout the summer and we face a seemingly relentless tide of heatwaves, it’s not just us feeling the heat—our dogs are, too. Keeping our dogs cool is crucial because the potential dangers of heatstroke are significant and can lead to severe or even life-threatening health complications. Since dogs can’t sweat like we do, they are less equipped to handle the heat. But don’t fret; we’ve got plenty of tips to help your dog beat the heat!

This pup’s got the right idea! There is no cooler place then inside with the AC on.

Signs of Heatstroke

Knowing the signs and symptoms of heatstroke is critical to keeping your dog safe in the heat. The following are signs that your dog may have been in the heat for too long.

Seizures

One of the most alarming signs of heatstroke is the onset of seizures. Seizures can be characterized by violent shaking and/or sudden loss of consciousness. If your dog has a seizure, seek veterinary care immediately.

Glassy Eyes and Fearful Expressions

Changes in your dog’s eyes and facial expressions can signal heatstroke. Glassy, unfocused eyes and a fearful or anxious look often indicate that your dog is significantly uncomfortable due to overheating.

Heavy Panting and Excessive Drooling

While panting is a natural cooling mechanism for dogs, heavy, rapid panting accompanied by excessive drooling is a red flag for heatstroke. Excessive respiratory effort and increased saliva production indicate that your dog is struggling to regulate their body temperature and that their biological cooling mechanisms are overwhelmed.

Heavy panting, drool, and collapsing are all signs your dog may have heatstroke.

Dry/Red Gums and Tongue

Your dog’s tongue, gums, and mucous membranes may be dry and/or bright red, indicating inadequate oxygenation and circulatory distress.

Vomiting

Vomiting is a severe symptom that not only indicates gastrointestinal upset caused by extreme heat but can lead to further dehydration, exacerbating the severity of heatstroke considerably.

Collapsing or Staggering

If your dog collapses or exhibits staggering movements, it is a critical warning sign of severe overheating. This disorientation and lack of coordination result from the body’s inability to cope with the excessive heat, leading to impaired neurological function.

High Body Temperature

Monitoring your dog’s body temperature is crucial during hot weather. The average temperature for dogs is around 38.5°C. When their body temperature rises to 43°C, it is life-threatening, and their organs begin to fail. Cool your dog and seek veterinary help immediately if you notice a high temperature.

Emergency Steps for Dogs with Heatstroke

If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, immediate action is crucial.

First, move your dog to a cooler environment, such as an air-conditioned room or a shaded area outdoors. Familiarize yourself with dog-friendly, air-conditioned establishments along your walking routes for emergencies.
Offer small amounts of tepid water regularly. Large quantities can induce vomiting, and ice-cold water can cause shock.
Drape wet towels over your dog’s body and apply cool (not cold) water to their skin, focusing on the chest, abdomen, and paw pads. Avoid ice-cold water or ice packs, as extreme cold can constrict blood vessels and slow the cooling process.
Place your dog near a fan to enhance the cooling effect through evaporation.
Monitor your dog’s condition closely, continuing cooling efforts until their body temperature returns to normal.

While you take these measures, contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency vet clinic for advice. Not only can they walk you through helping your dog recover, but they can also determine if your dog needs immediate professional care.

What Causes Heatstroke?

While it may seem obvious (it’s in the name, after all), more factors than just temperature contribute to heatstroke. Environmental factors such as humidity, exposure to direct sunlight, and restricted access to water can cause heatstroke in dogs, even on days with milder temperatures. The most common cause of heatstroke is exposure to high temperatures inside closed vehicles, which can rise from 25°C to over 35°C in two minutes and become life-threatening in under fifteen.

Some dogs are more at risk of heatstroke than others. Brachycephalic (short-nosed) dogs, as well as old and very young dogs, are particularly vulnerable. Long/thick coats, dark fur, or simply having acclimated to a cooler climate also increase risk. Several health conditions, such as cardiac disease, respiratory issues, and endocrine disorders, can contribute to heat stroke. Additionally, dogs that are out of shape require more exertion to keep cool in hot environments. Be sure to ask your vet if your dog is at a greater risk of heatstroke.

Keeping your Dog Cool

Preventing heatstroke is far easier than treating it. Luckily, you can employ plenty of strategies to keep your dog comfortable during the hottest days of the year.

Restrict Exercise

While it may seem like a bummer to forgo that beautiful sunny hike or that stimulating city walk, limiting your dog’s physical activity during periods of intense heat is vital. Exercise generates internal body heat, which can worsen the effects of high ambient temperatures.

Walk Early in the Morning or Late in the Evening

You don’t necessarily need to forgo exercise entirely. Schedule walks during the early morning and late evening, as these tend to be cooler and offer more opportunities for shade.

The image depicts a person walking a light-colored, medium-sized dog on a sidewalk. The dog appears to be an older breed with a cream coat and is wearing a harness. The person is wearing black pants, white sneakers, and a blue denim jacket. They are holding the dog’s leash in their hand. In the background, there are storefronts with various items displayed in the window. — Winston on a walk with our dog walker Courtney!

Ensure Water is Accessible

Hydration prevents heatstroke. Ensure your dog can access fresh, cool (not cold) drinking water.

Ensure Cool, Shaded Spaces Are Available

Providing shaded areas where your dog can rest away from direct sunlight helps them recover from the heat. A covered porch, trees, or an indoor space with air conditioning or good airflow can make a significant difference. Familiarize yourself with dog-friendly shops along your walking route, as these can offer a cool respite for your dog, especially if they are showing signs of overheating.

Spray with Cool Water

If your dog is comfortable with it, misting them with water is a simple yet effective method of cooling them down. Use a spray bottle, garden hose, or let them play under a gentle sprinkler.

Cooling Gear

Invest in specialized cooling gear designed for dogs. Cooling mats and elevated cots or hammocks provide a cool place for your dog to rest while cooling bandanas and vests help regulate their body temperature by emulating sweating. These items can offer additional comfort and are especially useful during heatwaves. Be sure to bring water to re-soak the bandanas and vests as needed.

Provide Indoor Activities

On extremely hot days, keep your dog entertained with indoor activities. Engage them with toys, puzzles, games, tricks, and training exercises that do not require strenuous physical effort or exposure to high temperatures.

The image depicts a brown, curly-furred dog with a blue collar. The dog is intently sniffing and licking a yellow bone-shaped lick mat on the floor. The background consists of a plain white wall, suggesting an indoor setting. — Dexter enjoying a snack on his dexypaws lick mat!

Frozen Treats

Offering frozen treats is a great way to keep your dog cool and hydrated. Pupsicles, raw bones, and specially-made frozen dog treats or toys can help manage their temperature and provide enjoyable, cooling snacks.

Blueberry, Peanut Butter & Banana Crunch Pupsicle Recipe

Water Sports

Engaging your dog in water-based activities can be fun to stay cool without sacrificing exercise or mental stimulation. Taking your dog swimming in a lake, pool, or the ocean offers an excellent opportunity to cool off in the sunny weather; just be careful not to overdo it, and always check for blue-green algae first.

Blue-green algae reports in Nova Scotia

This golden retriever is having a blast at the beach!

Grooming

Maintaining your dog’s coat is essential in hot weather. Regular brushing and grooming help prevent matting and loose-fur buildup, which can trap heat. A well-groomed coat aids in regulating body temperature by allowing airflow to the skin. Avoid completely shaving your dog’s coat unless explicitly advised by a qualified groomer, as fur insulates against the sun and protects from sunburns.

Interested in getting your dog groomed? Check out our fear-free grooming services!

Keep an Emergency Heatstroke Kit

Being prepared for emergencies can significantly improve your response time and effectiveness in treating heatstroke. Assemble an emergency heat stroke kit with the following essentials. Having these items close at hand can allow you to act quickly and efficiently if your dog shows signs of heatstroke:

Towel or Cooling Vest/Bandana: For placing on your dog to help lower body temperature.
Water Bottle & Bowl: For offering small amounts of tepid water and to dampen cooling gear.
Cool Packs or Handheld Fan: For immediate cooling or airflow.
Electrolyte Solution: To add to water to combat dehydration.
Thermometer: To monitor your dog’s body temperature accurately.

Keeping your dog safe and cool during a heatwave is essential for their health and well-being. Recognizing the signs of heatstroke and taking proactive measures can prevent dangerous situations. Prioritize your dog’s comfort and health during hot days. Indoor play and enrichment can be an excellent substitute for outdoor exercise, keeping your dog engaged without exposing them to the heat!