Take Precaution in Hot Humid Weather
With summer comes those hot days that make us appreciate the invention of air conditioning technology. Our dogs appreciate it too. This doesn’t mean we can’t exercise our dogs, but it does mean we should take some precautions by educating ourselves on heat exhaustion and heat stroke in dogs. First, it is wise to condition our dogs to exercising in hot weather by starting in small increments. This allows their bodies to slowly adjust to high temperature performance. We must also be sure to bring plenty of cool water along on walks and other activities. Just because your dog swims in a pond does not mean they have cooled off, especially if they were swimming hard. Dogs expel heat by panting, not by sweating like we do. This means that restrictive head gear like overly snug gentle leaders, or typical mesh muzzles (for aggressive dogs) will inhibit a dog’s ability to cool itself down. For dogs that must wear a muzzle, I suggest basket muzzles that do not restrict the dogs ability to open its mouth.
Signs of heat exhaustion may include:
1. Heavy (labourious) panting
2. Hyperventilation
3. Increased salivation later turning into dry gums
4.Weakness
5.Confusion
6. Vomitting
7. Diarrhea
Unless monitored and attended to, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, which include more serious threats to our dogs like death, and brain damage. Some dogs are more susceptible to heat problems including short nosed breeds like boxers. Other large breeds like mastiffs and Great Danes have a higher risk also. Be smart, attentive, and safe this summer with your pets, and most of all, have fun
Jonathan Brinkley