Cool Paws: Essentials to keep your dog safe during summer

As temperatures rise during the summer months, we need to take extra care for the well-being of their furry companions. This month and as summer kicks in, we will deep dive into the risks of overheating in dogs with the help of an excellent article from Hall et.al [1] and advice to protect our dogs from the Kennel Club [2] and Animal Emergency Service [3].
Dogs are particularly susceptible to overheating, which can lead to serious health issues or even be fatal. Understanding the signs of heat stress, knowing how to prevent it, and taking appropriate action can help ensure that your dog stays safe and comfortable during the hot season.

Understanding the Risks
• Dogs do not sweat like humans; they rely on panting and limited sweating through their paw pads and around the nose to regulate their body temperature. This makes them more prone to overheating, especially in hot and humid weather.
• Dog’s normal body temperature is 38-39oC. If your dog’s body temperature increases just by a couple of degrees to 41oC, the risk of heat stroke is imminent.
• Heat related illnesses can progress rapidly from mild (increased panting, difficulty breathing), to moderate (gastrointestinal issues, lethargic or collapse, seizures) to severe (neurological and bleeding disorders, liver and kidney damage) associated with a fatal outcome.
• Certain breeds, such as brachycephalic dogs (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs), elderly dogs, puppies, overweight and bigger breeds (> 50 kg) and those with existing health conditions are at higher risk.

Signs of Overheating
Recognizing the symptoms of overheating is crucial for timely intervention. The fastest you notice any of these signs and take appropriate action the better chances of full recovery your dog will have. Common signs include:
• Excessive panting (longer tongue with the tip folded upwards) or difficulty breathing
• Drooling (often very thick saliva)
• Change in gum color: pale, bright red, purple or blue
• Lethargy or weakness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Confusion or disorientation
• Collapsing or seizures
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take immediate action to cool your dog down and seek veterinary care.

Preventive Measures
1. NEVER  LEAVE DOGS IN CARS: Even with windows cracked, the temperature inside a car can rise rapidly to dangerous levels (50oC in just a few minutes). Leaving a dog in a parked car for even a few minutes can be fatal
2. Protect Paws: Asphalt and sand can become extremely hot and burn your dog’s paw pads. Walk your dog on grass or cooler surfaces and avoid Peak Heat Hours when walking surfaces are at their hottest.
3. Provide Plenty of Water: Ensure your dog has access to fresh, cool water at all times. Dehydration can exacerbate the effects of heat.
4. Provide Cooling Treats: Offer your dog frozen treats or ice cubes made from dog-safe ingredients. This can help keep them hydrated and cool
5. Exercise is the most common cause of heat stroke so avoid Peak Heat Hours when walking your dog. Aim for early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
6. Create a Cool Environment: Provide a shaded area or a cool, well-ventilated space for your dog to rest. Indoors, fans or air conditioning can help keep the environment comfortable.
7. Use Cooling Products: try cooling mats, vests, or bandanas designed for dogs or simply provide a damp towel were your dog can lie on. These can help lower your dog’s body temperature effectively.

Take action – Emergency Response
If your dog shows signs of severe overheating, act quickly and see a vet as soon as you have cooled down your dog, as they need to assess any possible damage to internal organs:
• Move your dog to a cooler area immediately.
• Gradually lower the dog’s body temperature by wetting them with tap water (15- 16oC). Focus on their paws, tummy and inner thighs and avoid the face to prevent them from inhaling the water.
• Avoid using ice-cold water as this causes constriction of blood vessels lowering their cooling ability
• Avoid covering them with wet towels as they trap the heat.
• Offer small amounts of water to drink, in case the dog wants to drink, but note that he may reject it until he has cooled down and is ready to drink again.
• Contact your vet immediately, even if your dog seems to have recovered, as damage to internal organs needs to be ruled out

Conclusion:
Summer can be a fun time for both you and your dog, but it requires careful attention to avoid the dangers of overheating. By understanding the risks, recognizing the signs of heat stress, and taking proactive measures, you can help ensure that your dog remains healthy and happy throughout the warm months. Always remember, a little prevention goes a long way in safeguarding your furry friend against the summer heat.

[1] E.J. Hall et al (2022). Risk Factors for Severe and Fatal Heat-Related Illness in UK Dogs—A VetCompass Study. Vet. Sci., 9(5), 231; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci9050231
[2] Heatstroke in dogs | Dog health | The Kennel Club
[3] Heat Stroke In Dogs – Signs, Symptoms & Treatment (animalemergencyservice.com.au)

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