Beat the Heat June 9, 2021 – Posted in: dogs, wellness

It’s heating up outside here in Eastern NC! As summer approaches, it’s important to remember just how much the heat can affect your dog.

These are some of our best tips to help keep your pup cool this summer:

Always walk early in the morning or later in the evening when the temperature is cooler & avoid overexertion on hot, humid days.
Never ever leave your dog in a hot car. Temperatures can rise to fatal levels in less than an hour. Even on a 75-degree day, the temperature in your car can rise to as high as 120 degrees within an hour.
Remember your pup’s paws aren’t protected from the hot asphalt, so choose grassy areas instead. Quick tip: Rest the palm of your hand on the asphalt and if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog.
Be extra careful with older or high-risk dogs such as short-muzzled dogs like boxers, bulldogs, or pugs. Also, be cautious with darker dogs as they tend to be a magnet for heat.

Fun Ways to Stay Cool:

A dip in cool water is one of the best ways for dogs to cool off. You can provide water with a sprinkler or a kiddie pool.
Give your pup a yummy frozen yogurt doggy-friendly treat. They will thank you!
Make ice cube tray treats by filling trays with pumpkin, sweet potato, or yogurt & freezing.

Remember: It’s easy to assume because you’re comfortable that your dog is too. Most dogs can’t handle the heat as well as people.

Signs of heatstroke include: