The weatherman said there are 106 million people in the US under a heat advisory today. I’m not sure how many dogs live with those 106 million people, but thought this might be a good time to review some things about dogs and heat.
If at all possible, let your dog stay indoors. If s/he MUST be outside, provide multiple sources of water in case they knock over a bowl or three. Provide shade, not just in a dog house, but somewhere they can catch a breeze if the wind happens to blow.
Protect their feet. If you cannot hold the back of your hand comfortably on the pavement for 7 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog to be walking on it. Consider buying booties or skip the walk for today. If you do go out, take shorter walks or runs than normal and hydrate often.
If your dog has a pushed-in nose like a Pug, be especially careful on hot days. They have a tough time breathing through their little brachycephalic faces.
NEVER NEVER NEVER leave your dog in the car. It’s rarely for “just a second” and your car heats up quicker than you think, even with the windows open.
Try this for a fun hot day treat: put a few toys or treats in a small bucket (the kind kids use at the beach). Fill the bucket with water and put it in the freezer. When it’s solid, fill up your sink with hot water, dip the bucket in briefly to loosen the ice, then dump it out. Let your dogs lick their way to the treats and toys.
In short, treat your dogs the way you want to be treated on a hot day, maybe minus the margaritas!
Until next time,
Good day, and good dog!