Georgia’s scorching summer heat can take a toll on your dog over time. The exceedingly warm temperatures can lead to dehydration, heat stroke, and worse, making it crucial to protect your four-legged friend during the dog days of summer. However, many Alpharetta residents don’t know how to safeguard their dogs from high temperatures.
That’s why Midway Animal Hospital is here to teach you some tips on protecting your dog from the summer heat.
Midway Animal Hospital is one of North Atlanta’s most trusted veterinary hospitals. We offer high-quality veterinary services that will keep your pets in fantastic health so you can enjoy their company for years to come.
Why It’s Vital to Protect Your Dog from High Temperatures
Like humans, dogs can experience several health problems in extreme heat. Although they can withstand 90-plus degree temperatures for a little while, too much exposure can cause:
- Heat stroke
- Increased body temperature
- Excessive panting
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Death
That’s why it’s important to keep an eye on your dog during the summer to ensure they remain healthy throughout the season.
That said, you don’t have to trap your dog inside during hot weather. You can still take your pet to the dog park and play outside; just limit their outdoor time to ensure they don’t experience adverse health effects. Leaving your dog inside all summer long isn’t ideal and can prevent them from getting much-needed exercise.
Protecting Your Dog from Extreme Temperatures: Best Practices
Although you can’t control outdoor temperatures, you can take some measures to protect your dog from excessive heat and prevent various health issues. Below are some efficient tips for protecting your dog from the summer heat.
Give Your Dog Plenty of Cool Water
One of the most common health issues associated with heat is dehydration. Humans and dogs alike can experience dehydration in high temperatures if they don’t drink enough water. Giving your dog plenty of clean water during the summer is a surefire way to keep them hydrated and prevent numerous health issues.
If possible, try to give your dog cold water to help them cool down outside. It will help reduce their body temperature, ensuring they stay cool in excessive heat. Adding a few ice cubes to your dog’s water bowl is a fantastic way to keep the water cold and refreshing without having to change it every hour or two.
Limit Outdoor Time
Most dogs, especially young and energetic breeds, love playing outside in comfortable temperatures. It keeps them healthy and in shape while allowing them to blow off steam. However, too much outdoor activity in high temperatures can cause more harm than good.
It’s best to limit your dog’s outdoor time during the hottest part of the day. This will prevent them from overheating, keeping them safe during the season. If possible, play with your dog in the early morning or at dusk when cooler temperatures set in.
Also, never take your dog for a walk in overly hot temperatures. The asphalt gets extremely hot and can burn your dog’s paws. Dogs don’t have shoes to protect their feet from hot surfaces, so avoid walking them on asphalt or warm concrete until temperatures drop.
Bathe Your Dog Frequently
Bathing your dog provides more than a fresh and clean fur coat. It can also keep them cool during hot summer days. Giving your dog frequent baths will help them beat the heat while ensuring they look their best.
If your dog knows how to swim, giving them a dip in a pool can also cool them down during sunny summer afternoons. Allow the dog to join you and your family as you relax in your pool while keeping an eye on them to ensure they stay safe. You can also purchase a durable kiddie pool for your pet if you don’t have one installed on your property.
Also, give your dog a thorough rinsing after they swim in a pool. This will remove chlorine, salt, and other contaminants that might have latched onto their coat while they swam.
Never Leave Your Dog in a Car
One of the most irresponsible things a dog owner can do is leave their furry friends in a car during the summer. Dogs are more sensitive to heat and can’t withstand high temperatures as well as humans. Leaving your dog in a hot car for too long can cause serious harm and even death in some situations.
Keep in mind that it’s much hotter inside a parked car than it is outside. For example, if it’s 95 degrees outside, your car’s interior temperature can reach around 114 degrees after just ten minutes. After 30 minutes, the temperature can surpass 129 degrees, putting your dog in serious jeopardy.
Contact Midway Animal Hospital for Outstanding Veterinary Services in Alpharetta, GA.
If you need professional veterinary services in the North Atlanta area, contact Midway Animal Hospital. Our team will teach you tips for protecting your dog from the summer heat while providing exceptional health care that will keep your furry friend healthy throughout the season. We always make your pet our top priority and will handle all their veterinary needs at a price that fits your budget.
Keep your dog safe during summer; contact Midway Animal Hospital and see what our team in Alpharetta can do for your dog today!
