Texas summers are no joke! Some people prefer the hot weather, while others like to experience all of the seasons. Our canine pals are also similarly divided on this topic. However, even dogs that like it warm can quickly overheat on scorching days. Don’t forget that Fido is wearing a fur coat. A local Deer Park, TX vet offers some advice on helping your canine buddy beat the heat in this article.

What Temperature Is Too Hot For Dogs?

Fido’s danger zone may be cooler than what you would think. You’ll need to keep an eye on your pet anytime the temperature goes above 70F. While 70 isn’t particularly hot, dogs can overheat very quickly when they are running and playing.

Once it’s above 80, you’ll need to keep a very close eye on your pooch. Once it hits 90, be extremely diligent. If it goes over 100, take every possible precaution to keep Fido cool and safe.

Does Putting Water On Dogs Keep Them Cool?

Spritzing Fido with water can help cool him off. Your pup may also enjoy getting sprayed with a hose on sweltering days.

How Do I Know If My Dog Is Overheating?

Your furry pal can’t tell you if he’s too hot, so you’ll need to keep a close eye on him. Panting is usually the first thing you’ll notice. It’s normal for dogs to pant a bit when it’s hot, or after they’ve chased their favorite ball across the yard a bunch of times. However, ongoing or heavy panting is a red flag.

Here are some of the other things to look for.

• Vomiting
• Drooling
• Increased heart rate
• Red/discolored gums or tongue
• Confusion
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Dehydration
• Diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing
• Excessive thirst
• Glazed/sunken eyes
• Tremors
• Lack of urine
• Listlessness

If you spot any of these, immediately take steps to cool your dog off, and then contact your vet or your animal emergency clinic for further instructions. 

How To Cool Down A Hot Dog?

If you know or suspect that your canine pal is getting too hot,  you’ll need to take action immediately. The first thing you’ll want to do is give your furry friend some water. Then, take steps to bring his body temperature down. If you’re at home, take him to a room cooled by fans or air conditioning. You can also spritz him with water. Another option is to wet a bandana and hang it around his neck, or put him before a fan and spritz water into the fan. Don’t use cold water: that could send him into shock. You should be on the phone with your vet or pet emergency clinic as you’re doing this.

How Do You Keep A Dog Cool In Hot Weather?

When it comes to options for keeping dogs safe in the heat, you’ll basically want to take a multi-pronged approach. 

Keep Fido Hydrated

This is at the top of the list, and with good reason. Making sure that Fido is staying properly hydrated is always important, but it’s especially crucial in summer. Set out extra water stations if you have a large place or more than one pup.  On hot days, go ahead and drop a few ice cubes in your canine buddy’s bowl. 

If Fido has a yard to play in, keep water out there as well.  Be sure to clean and refill the bowls every day: toads can contaminate it by hopping through for a dip.

Never Leave Dogs In Cars

We can’t overstate how dangerous this can be. Temps inside a locked car can reach deadly levels in just a few minutes. For instance, if it’s 90 out, the interior of a car can hit 135 after just an hour. If it’s just 70, that car can get to be 115 in an hour.

Cracking the window a little isn’t enough to negate the rising temps. Leaving the car running isn’t safe, either: your pet could step on a window control or even knock the gear shifter. 

The only exception would be if you have a car with pet mode, such as a Tesla. However, even those aren’t foolproof. 

Grooming

Grooming can also make a difference. Brushing Fido will remove dead fur and dander, which can get hot and itchy. Your pet may also appreciate a cooler summer do. Check with your vet first, though. If your dog has a double coat, then clipping him could damage his fur.

Water Fun

Swimming can be as fun for Fido as it is for people. However, not all dogs are cut out for the water. Ask your vet for advice before taking your pet to a swimming hole.

If swimming isn’t a safe option for your pet and/or you just want to help him stay cool around the house and don’t have a pool, get him a kiddie pool to splash around in. You can also get him a doggy fountain to play in.

Always Provide Shade

Does your canine buddy have a yard? Make sure he always has a shady area. If you don’t have trees, you can erect a shade canopy easily.

Cooling Products

You can also get some products made specifically for keeping your canine companion cool on sweltering days. Cooling mats, as the name suggests, are pads that your pup would lay on. You can also get your pooch a cooling vest. There are a few types of these. Some you keep in the freezer. Others you soak with water. Be sure to do some product research and check your pet’s measurements before buying.

Comfy Beds

It’s not easy to sleep well when you’re roasting. That’s true for Fido as well. Your pooch may appreciate an elevated bed. Because air moves below these, they are a bit cooler than regular beds. These can also be a good option for larger dogs, as they offer good support. You may find them handy for the yard as well, since they’re easy to hose down. 

Climate Control 

Fido should always have access to cooler rooms or areas. Your furry friend may also not mind having a fan pointed at or above his bed. Just make sure that he can’t knock it over onto himself.

Cold Treats

Who doesn’t like a cold snack when it’s sweltering hot out? You can buy or make your furry pal something yummy. You can also find ice cream made just for Fido. Or, look online for recipes and make your own. Just be sure to stick with things that are safe for your four-legged friend. Ask your vet for more information on this.

Keep Your Dog Off Hot Surfaces

Paw burns are another concern in summer. Don’t assume that it’s safe once the sun goes down: tar can stay searing hot for hours after sunset. Try to keep Fido on soft surfaces as much as possible, and use paw balm or wax to protect those fragile toe beans. As a rule of thumb, if it’s too hot for you to walk barefoot on, it’s too hot for your dog.

Doggy Schedule Change

When it gets really hot, you may want to adjust Fido’s schedule a bit to compensate. Walk and play with him in the mornings and evenings, when it’s a bit cooler out.

Make An Appointment At Your Deer Park, TX Veterinary Clinic

Do you have questions about your canine pal’s health or care? Is Fido due for an exam, vaccines, or parasite control? Contact us, your local Deer Park, TX pet hospital, today.