As the sun continues to shine brighter and temperatures rise, it's essential for pet owners to be aware of the potential risks of overheating and how to keep your pup from turning into a hot mess.
Our friends over at Bond Vet gave us some tips that we wanted to share with you.
Here's the lowdown on spotting the signs of a hot dog (no, not just a dachshund!) and what to do if things get a little too sizzlin'.
1. Excessive Panting:
Picture this: your pup's panting like they've just finished a marathon in a sauna. While dogs do pant, going overboard might mean they're trying to tell you, "Hey, I'm burning up in here!"
2. Drool-Worthy Drama:
If you're suddenly seeing Niagara Falls cascading from their mouth, it could mean they're feeling the heat a tad too much. Keep an eye on that drool!
3. The Nap Queen/King:
We all know dogs have mastered the art of napping, but if your usually bouncy pup is more into nap marathons than zoomies, they might be sending you an "I need a cooldown" signal.
4. Flamin' Gums and Tongue:
Is your pup's tongue brighter than a neon sign? Are their gums putting the red carpet to shame? Well, those colors might mean they're trying to cool off big time.
5. Tummy Troubles:
Vomiting and diarrhea might be their way of saying, "I'm overheated, and I'm not loving it!"
6. Emergency Cool-Down Protocol:
Okay, so you've got a suspicion that your pup's turning into a fire ball. Time to make some moves:
- Escape the Heat Wave: Move to the coolest spot you can find – air conditioning, shade, you name it!
- Hydration Station: Water, water everywhere! Make sure your pup has a fresh bowl or Dog Travel Bottle of cool H2O.
- Wet 'n' Wild: Grab a damp cloth or even a hose (if they're into that kind of fun) and gently wet your pup's fur.
- Airflow: If you've got a fan, set it up for some pup-approved breezes.
- Ring the Vet : If things aren't looking up or your pup seems to be staging a heatwave rebellion, get in touch with your vet ASAP. Heatstroke's no joke!
Let's talk prevention, pup parents. Avoid the midday sun when you're out and about, and always give your pup some shade and water. If you're worried about your pup's heat tolerance, give your vet a call for some personalized advice.
So, this summer, let's make sure our pups stay cool as cucumbers! Time to roll out the beach towels and enjoy the sun without the meltdown.