How to stop your dog becoming a hot dog

It's hot out there and you need to be careful not just for yourself but your dog as well. Although they may be the cleverest person in your house at finding food, when it comes to looking after number one it is a different matter. Sometimes your dog will find a shady spot and spread themselves out low to the ground out of the heat. However, if you have the type of dog that likes to chase sticks, a ball or just their own tail then they might run around for hours in direct sunlight. 

As we are sure you are aware the dangers of heat to dogs are very real. They don't sweat like humans, but pant instead. A good warning sign is if you see your dog panting heavily then they are too hot. If they get too hot it can lead to organ failure, heat stroke and other unpleasentness. We all love our dogs so here are some tips to keep them cool in the summer. 

[ux_image id="7991"]

How to keep your dog cool in the summer.

1. Put cold water on towels and place the towels under your dogs armpits at the top of their legs.
2. Move them into a cool room in the house.
3. Avoid conservatories.
4. Never, ever leave your dog in the car.
5. Carry water with you on dog walks.
6. Replace your dogs high sided beds with a cushion or mattress.
7. Put ice in your dogs water bowl.
8. Let them swim in a paddling pool or river.
9. Avoid long walks in the mid day sun. Try early morning or evening walks instead.
10. You can always trim certain types of dog to keep their hair thin.
11. Avoid hot surfaces when walking like tarmac which will burn their feet.
12. Make some icy treatsfor your pet.
13. At home make sure they access to cold clear water at all times.

[ux_image id="7993"]

Please remember that if you see any of the signs of dehydration then you should take your dog to the nearest vet immediatly. 

The signs of dehydration in dogs are:

• Uncharacteristic tiredness
• Dry Mouth
• Sunken eyes
• Excessive panting
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

If you have any other tips for keeping your dog out of the heat, we would love to hear them so please use the comments box below.