As the sun has finally decided to show itself again, we thought it was the perfect time to post a handy guide on how to keep your furry friends safe in the sunshine.
Paw protection
Keeping their precious paws healthy in the heat is important for two very good reasons: Firstly, their paws are the only place where they can sweat – and as we know, sweating helps all of us cool down.
Secondly, if you’ve ever burnt your feet on a sandy beach in the summertime, then you’ll know just how much it hurts and how long it can take to heal. The same goes for dogs’ paws on hot pavements, so where possible walk on grass or cool surfaces and aim to exercise during cooler times of the day such as mornings and/or evenings. If you really can’t avoid hot pavements then there are many paw booties available.
Skin Protection
Much as you may like to keep their coats all neat and coiffed, the coat also acts as a temperature regulator, to keep them warm in the winter and to cool them in the summer. So, if the temperature hits the highs of recent years then maybe reign back on shaving their coats any shorter than an inch to ensure they can still get protection from the heat and the power of the sun.
On that note, dogs can also get sunburn and so, much like humans, they need protecting from the rays – especially short haired and light-coloured coats and all noses, bellies and ears. Choose a pet-specific suncream for protection as many human ones contain potentially toxic ingredients for dogs.
Ventilation
The other way a dog can cool itself is by panting, where heat loss is increased due to the evaporation of water from their nose and lungs during the act of rapidly inhaling, humidifying and then exhaling the air. It cools them from the inside out. Ensuring they have a good supply of fresh air, at all times, will increase the efficiency of heat loss when they pant. If kept confined or in humid conditions, heatstroke can quickly occur. Also ensure they have access to shade and water at all times.
Unexpected Dangers
Don’t forget that not all dogs are great swimmers and some in fact will simply sink like a stone – so if you’re getting the pool out, then some training is in order (or refresher training if they’ve seen it before), as the temptation to take a running jump when you’re not looking might be too much. Shallow paddling pools are a great way for dogs to cool down, but like you would with a child, you should keep watch at all times.
Open car windows are another hazard. It’s always lovely to see a dog in a passing car with its ears flapping in the breeze, but ensure they are safely restrained in the car and cannot fall or jump out of the window. Open the window part way to give a good supply of fresh air and then put the child-lock on because clever paws can easily open the window fully, which you may not realise has even happened if they are sitting on the back seat.
(Saving the best until last) Don’t forget to have fun!
Our Guru Pet, Vesper, is a big fan of the hosepipe when it’s hot. She bounces around in front of it snapping at the water as it sprays, which invariably soaks the person holding the hose as much as it does her! It makes watering the patio plants great fun in the evening sun!
