The long days of summer allow us to enjoy all our favorite activities: hiking, camping, long walks and outdoor adventures. The long summer days can also bring the risk of heat exposure to our dogs. The consequence of overheating can be very serious for our pets. Heatstroke can occur quickly and the result can be deadly. Where I live in the South, the temperatures average in the high 90’s to low 100’s and the humidity can be extremely high.
Dogs cool themselves through the process of panting and breathing. When dogs pant, the air passing over the saliva in their mouths helps them cool. In addition, the lining of the dogs lungs serve as an evaporative surface, much like our skin when we sweat. Blood vessels in the face, ears and feet can also expand, helping to dispel heat from the body.
A dogs body temperature is normally between 100.2 and 102.8 Fahrenheit. When a dogs cooling mechanisms are overwhelmed, the body may no longer be able to cool itself adequately, and the dog can become overheated. Dogs who get too hot can suffer from dehydration, heat cramps and heat stress, If a dogs body temperature rises past 104, he is in serious danger. If the body temperature continues to rise to above 106, heatstroke can occur.
Heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that can cause lethargy, weakness, collapse, seizure, coma, brain damage and even death. If the body temperature rises to 109, his heart, brain, liver and kidneys will shut down.
Fortunately, heatstroke can be prevented. If caught early, in it’s initial stages, it is reversible. A overheated dog is, quite obviously, a medical emergency. Even if you are able to cool the dog down, you should still seek medical treatment if you suspect your dog has suffered from heatstroke. Problems associated with heatstroke-including kidney failure, respiratory arrest, abnormal heart rhythms, and seizures-do not always show up right away. Immediate veterinary treatment can help minimize the risks and save your dogs life.
Dogs can suffer from heat stress in just a few short minutes, even when the temperature does not seem that hot to us. How will you know if your dog is at risk for overheating? There is not an exact answer to this question. It depends on the dog and the situation.
All dogs are at risk in extreme temperatures. But a dog who is accustomed to 90 degree weather may have less risk on a hot day than a coastal pup vacationing in the Arizona desert. And the air temperature is only one consideration: humidity, sun exposure and lack of shade, amount of time spent in the heat, level of exertion, and availability of water can all have an effect on how well the dog tolerates heat.
Certain types of dogs, including northern breeds like Malamutes or short muzzled (brachycephalic) dogs like Pugs and Boxers, may have a more difficult time in the heat. Puppies under 6 months, older dogs, and overweight dogs can also have a much harder time when temperatures rise. Dogs on certain medications or with medical conditions like heart or lung disease will be more susceptible to heat exposure. A dog who suffered from heat stress or heatstroke in the past is more likely to have problems in the future.
Along with the outside temperature, humidity and health of the dog, you have to take into consideration the dog’s personality and ability to stop himself from playing if he gets uncomfortable. Some breeds are so driven that they work or play no matter how hot they get.
The best way to know if your dog is at risk for heat illness would be to monitor your dog’s body temperature, however that is not practical in everyday life.
You can also take note on how your dog responds to heat and the signals he gives that indicate he is getting hot. Panting more than usual, declining to engage in a favorite activity, moving slower than usual, searching out a spot in the shade, or digging to make a cool spot can all mean that your dog is hot. If your dog is exhibiting any of these signs, it may mean he is already too hot and you should take immediate steps to cool him down.
Leaving a dog in the car is one of the most common causes of heatstroke. On a mild 70 degree day, a closed car can heat up to 120 degrees in a matter of minutes. Because dogs can’t cool off effectively while sitting in an oven-like car, they can quickly overheat. Cracking windows or parking in the shade does not significantly reduce the car’s temperature.
Dogs can suffer heat exposure at home too. On a warm day, a concrete dog run can heat up quickly. A backyard that lacks shade, or with fencing that blocks cooling breezes, may make the dog’s environment many degrees hotter than where you relax, comfortable in the house. Neighborhood walks on warm days can also pose a risk. Hot asphalt and concrete can reflect heat, both creating an uncomfortable walking surface and increasing the risk of overheating.
Tips for Protection from the Heat
A lot of methods for protecting your dog from heat stress are just common sense.
- Never leave your dog in the car on warm days
- When the temperatures rise, bring your dog inside the house. If you need air conditioning, chances are your dog does too. If you must leave your dog outside, make sure he has plenty of fresh drinking water, shade and ventilation.
- Never confine your dog or leave him crated in the sun. Use caution when leaving a crated dog under a shade awning too. Remember that the sun moves and what was a shady spot can quickly become sun baked.
- Provide rest breaks in the shade and plenty of water on all outdoor excursions.
- Avoid overexertion on hot, humid days. Even if your dog generally joins you on a walk or run, extreme temperatures call for a change in routine. Instead, walk exercise and practice dog sports early in the morning or late in the day when the temperatures are cooler.
- A dip in cool water is one of the best ways for dogs to cool off. Wet your dog with a hose, or provide water play like a sprinkler or wading pool. You can also drape your dog with a wet bandana, towel or T-shirt.
- If you are going to a hot environment consider purchasing a cool mat or other dog friendly cooling aids. Be very aware of your dogs response to the heat, provide extra water, and give him several days to acclimate before allowing him to be active.
- Limit sun exposure during the mid-day hours and use animal safe sunscreen on dogs with pink noses or exposed skin.
- Be especially careful with older and high risk dogs.
Expert recommendations vary on the topic of whether or not to clip your dog to assist with heat management. Trimming a double coated dogs fur may help, but never shave them down to the skin. Leave at least one inch of coat to provide some insulation and protection from sunburn. Generally, long haired dogs with a single coat should not be clipped, as their coats may not be dense enough to protect them from the sun when cut short.
Enjoy your summer and stay cool!
The Whole Dog Journal
