Tips on Ditching the Dog Days of Summer
That good ole’ summer sunshine loves bringing the heat!
While most days are filled with fun in the sun, some may be too hot for the furrier ones in our families. One of our biggest struggles during those bright summer days is whether or not the temp is too hot for Jack. As a parent of a dog that has mastered the look of sheer desperation when you utter the four most disappointing words in a pup’s world - “I’ll be right back!” - we often find it difficult to leave him behind. With that said, it is better for him to stay cool and comfortable than be exposed to dangerously hot temperatures. The dog days of summer can be pretty brutal when you rock a fur coat 24/7.
So, how hot is too hot?
With the help of Jack, we decided to do a little research to find out!
We all know it is never cool to leave your pup in the car unattended, but what about when you’re driving home from a hike, he’s holding down the back seat, and all of the sudden a craving for your go-to cold pressed juice becomes a dire need? You know you will be in and out in 10 minutes flat. He’ll be fine if you roll down the windows… park in the shade, right? WRONG! Even with the windows cracked, the high temperatures inside a parked car can become a death trap for your pet. On a beautiful, breezy, 78-degree day the inside of a parked car can rise up to 99-120 degrees in less than 10 minutes! Can you imagine being trapped in a sauna wearing a fur coat?
What about playing outside on a hot, sunny, summer afternoon or taking a long stroll around the block? Most dog owners know the 10-second rule of placing your palm face down onto the hot pavement. If you can withstand the heat, most likely your dog can too. If not, you should consider booties! Jack has a pair of Summit Trex™ booties from RuffWear. Not only does he think he is super dog when he wears them, they protect his pads from blistering. They have become a staple in Jack’s summer wardrobe as well compliment any GDC collar!
Though Jack is considered a senior dog, he has the heart of a young pup. He rarely stops to take a breath or rest his legs. There is no relaxing at the park when Jack is around! Sometimes dogs get caught up with excitement and don’t show drastic signs of being too hot until it is too late. Make sure to always have water and provide shade as much as possible. Panting is a way for your dog to cool himself off. Be on the lookout if heavy panting and drooling occur. If you add a touch of salt in the water, it will help replenish the minerals he has lost from over panting. Another tip…Dogs cool from the bottom up. If you see your dog looking lethargic, use cool or cold water to wet his paws and legs. If you have a towel handy, wet it with cool water and have him lie down on top.
Now that we know how uncool the hot summer rays can be, be aware of your dog’s behavior, keep an eye out and be the voice for those who can’t speak.