Mary Allen
Dogs have a completely different cooling system than we humans, which sweats when we get hot. The dog’s nose acts as an air cooler, the air is cooled down in the dog’s nose and then comes cooled to the lungs and then transported to the rest of the body.
Dogs also sweat through their paws. For dogs with short noses, it can be more difficult with heat than for those with longer noses, where more air can fit. If your dog is panting (hoarsely) a lot, it may need help to cool down. Ice cubes, ice cream, shade, and cooling baths are good things you can help the dog with. Here are some things to keep in mind when you and your dog go out in the heat:
Check the asphalt
It is easy to forget how hot the asphalt gets, but if it is about 25 degrees hot outside, the asphalt can get over 50 degrees hot. If it is over 30 degrees in the air, the asphalt can become closer to 60 degrees hot. To be safe – try laying your back against the asphalt. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for dog paws and pads.
Avoid tanning
Earlobes, the upper part of the nose, around the eyes, and stomach are placed on the dog where it can burn itself in the sun. The skin is thinner there, so if you are going to be in the sun for a whole day – get sunscreen for dogs, and lubricate. For dogs with thin or no fur, this also applies to the rest of the body.
Brush or comb dogs that shed, and cut long-haired dogs
Most dogs shed at the beginning of the summer and then daily brushing helps to hold on to the coat and get rid of the loose hair that is still on its way away, and it makes it easier for the dog when it is hot. If you cut long-haired dogs short during the summer, you will also have easier control of ticks and other vermin.
Drink water, doggy!
Bring extra water for the dog when you are out and make sure that there is always water readily available for the dog.
Avoid bathing in water with blue-green algae
The dog can get sick from blue-green algae – and the smaller the dog, the greater the risk of reaction. Unfortunately, blue-green algae bloom when it is hot and they are found in many lakes, streams, and along beach strips where you would otherwise like to bathe with your dog.