Dog Health: Keeping your dog cool during the hot months!
by Maria Catherina “Catey” Carlos, Makati Dog and Cat Hospital
The blazing heat of the sun never seems to leave the Philippines. As pet owners, it is our responsibility to make sure that our furry friends enjoy the weather while being able to withstand the summer-like heat throughout the year.
Beat the Heat! Watch Out for These Signs in Your Dogs!
Make sure to take these 5 preventive measures to protect your dog/s during summertime:
- Always provide plenty of water
Providing an accessible supply of water is the first step to preventing dehydration.
- Groom Pets properly
Consider cutting your dog’s fur shorter or thinner so they can easily breathe. However, do not shave them, especially double-coated dogs. A dog’s fur acts as an insulating layer to its skin. This is what protects them from sunburn and heatstroke
In order to keep that insulation, make sure to always brush your dog’s fur to prevent any matting or knots.
- Test the ground temperature with your hand
Before walking or playing with your dog outside, you can roughly check the ground temperature using the back of your hand. Place it on the ground for a few minutes in order to measure the temperature. If you find the ground too hot to touch, then it is too hot for your dog to walk on.
- Plan outdoor activities accordingly
Rather than taking your dog out on the hottest parts of the day, walk them on cooler times. Temperatures and times may vary depending on the region. Although in general, the hottest times in the day are 12 noon to 3:00 pm. Meanwhile, the cooler times tend to be early morning or evening, such as 6:00 am.
- Consider cooling products
While not absolutely necessary, cooling accessories and products will provide extra relief to your dogs in the heat. For example, something as simple as dog shoes will protect your fur buddy from the hot roads.
Remember, when it comes to dog health: Prevention is Always Better Than Cure