Summer Sun: Keeping Pets Cool in the Heat

As the summer sun begins to blaze down on us, staying cool is crucial for both humans and our furry companions. Dogs, in particular, can struggle with the rising temperatures, making it vital to keep them safe and happy during the hot season. It’s no secret that our dogs LOVE to lay in the sun with us, but do you know why? It’s not because they are solar powered, but because they absorb Vitamin D through their skin! We all need Vitamin D but dogs, like us, can’t make this vitamin on their own. Here’s how it works:

☀️Dogs release an oily cholesterol from their skin
☀️This oil turns to Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight
☀️Because of their fur, a dog’s skin can’t absorb this oil so the oil stays put
☀️When a dog grooms itself, it is taking in the Vitamin D on its fur

While sunbathing is helpful for our pooches, it is important to remember to keep your dogs cool as well. Read some tips below to keep your dog comfortable and avoid heat exhaustion:

Hot Weather Tips:

Hydration is Key: Just like us, dogs need to stay hydrated in hot weather. Ensure they always have access to fresh water. If your dog is overheated and drinks very cold water quickly, it could send their body into shock. Ensure that you are not giving them ice water when cooling down. Sticking to room-temp water is best!

Shade and Ventilation: Create shaded areas in your outdoor space so your dogs can escape the direct sun when they need to. If your budget allows and if your dog enjoys the water, set up a small kiddie pool for them to splash around in. Additionally, make sure your indoor spaces are well-ventilated with fans or air conditioning.

Morning and Evening Walks: Opt for walks during the cooler parts of the day, like early mornings and late evenings. Avoid hot pavement that can burn their paw pads, and use a paw balm protectant like Musher’s Secret to protect those paw pads! Check out this article for more about knowing when it’s to hot for your dog to walk outside. 

Cooling Mats: Cooling mats are sold at pet stores and websites like amazon. While they are great to have, you can make DIY cooling mats with materials like a damp towel or an inexpensive ice pack wrapped in a cloth. Place these mats in your dog’s favorite resting spots.

Signs of Heat Exhaustion:

Signs of heat exhaustion include: excessive panting, drooling, difficulty standing/walking or vomiting. If your dog experiences any of these symptoms, rush them to an emergency vet ASAP! 

Dogs with thick coats such as huskies or shepherds, and dogs with brachycephalic noses (flat faces like pugs or frenchies) may need extra breaks as they do not handle the heat as well as other types of dogs!

It’s important to remember that dogs cannot regulate their temperatures like humans can, so they may need some encouragement to cool off. Even if it means taking them inside for a break when you are staying out, leashing them in the shade for a while, or encouraging them to drink water.