Here are some steps you can take to ensure your dog stays cool during the summer months.
Never leave dogs in hot cars, conservatories, outbuildings or caravans on a warm day (even if only for a short while). When it's 22°C outside, temperatures can quickly rise to 47°C (117°F) in these environments, which can be fatal.
Use pet-safe sun cream on exposed parts of your pet's skin, such as the tips of their ears and nose, to avoid sunburn. This is especially important if your dog has white or light-coloured fur, as they can be very vulnerable to getting burnt. If you're unsure which is the right product to use, please ask your vet.
Ensure pets always have access to shade and fresh drinking water to help keep them cool.
Put ice cubes into your dog's water bowl or make some tasty ice cube treats.
Give your pet damp towels to lie on (never place a damp towel over your dog as this can trap in heat) or an ice pack wrapped in a towel. Both simple methods could provide welcome relief from the heat
If you're planning a day out with your dog, check before leaving home whether dogs are allowed. If they're not, arrange a pet-sitter or choose another, dog-friendly attraction.
Groom them regularly - regular grooming in warmer weather can help brush away any dead or excess hair, leaving your dog with a less dense coat - much better for staying cool!
Dogs may also appreciate a paddling pool to splash around in, although not all dogs like water, so there's no need to force them if they don't want to!
Walking your dog in hot weather
Dogs need exercise, even when it's hot. We recommend walking your dog in the morning or evening when it's cooler to reduce the risk of heatstroke and burning their paws on the pavement. Switzerland have amazing forests everywhere to walk during the day and they are always cool.
Signs of burned pads
Try the 5-second test - if it's too hot for your hands, it's too hot for paws!
You can also look out for:
Limping or refusing to walk
Licking or chewing at the feet
Pads darker in colour
Missing part of pad
Blisters or redness
If you have grass near your place, prefer always to walk them on the grass instead of the street.
Signs of heatstroke
Heavy panting and difficulty breathing
Excessively drooling
The dog appears lethargic, drowsy or uncoordinated
Collapsed or vomiting
Call immediately your vet.
Swiiiiimming :)
Swimming is excellent exercise for dogs and a great exercise alternative to walking in the summer heat. But remember that not all dogs like to swim, so if yours doesn’t then don’t force them and never throw a dog into water.
Be wary of tides at the beach
Drinking salt water is likely to make your dog sick and isn’t very good for them. Bring fresh water with you to the beach.
Wash salt and sand off your dog’s coat after swimming to prevent it drying and irritating their skin
Be careful to avoid heatstroke on the beach
Watch out for currents in rivers
Check freshwater lakes, rivers, ponds and canals to make sure they are clean before letting your dog dive in. Some types of algae, including blue-green algae, are toxic to dogs. If your dog swims in algae-contaminated water, contact your vet immediately.
Dogs can and do drown in rivers and the sea. If your dog has inhaled water, contact your vet, as they can suffer complications.
Sadly, each year dog owners drown trying to rescue their pets. Don’t risk dangerous situations.
KIKA wishes you a wonderful summer!
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