When hot weather arrives, it’s natural to want to get out and soak up as much sun as possible. Of course you want to bring your dog with you on your summer adventures, but it’s important to know that dogs don’t respond to heat the same way we do and may have trouble cooling down after being exposed to temperatures above 80°F (28°C). This article will teach how to tell if your pooch is too hot, how to cool him down, and how to keep him safe and comfortable all summer long.
Checking for Signs of Overheating and Dehydration
Notice if your dog is panting excessively, drooling, or has thick, sticky saliva.
These are all signs that your dog is overheated and, if you don’t act, could lead to heatstroke. If you notice your dog displaying these symptoms, begin cooling her down right away. Even if you think she’s just hot and not experiencing overheating yet, it’s worth it to call your vet and get their opinion. More severe overheating can cause diarrhea, vomiting (sometimes bloody), seizures, coma, cardiac arrest and death.
Check the elasticity of your dog’s skin to see if he is dehydrated.
Gently pull the skin on the back of your dog’s neck. If your dog is hydrated, the skin should immediately go back to it’s normal position. If the skin sticks up or stays wrinkled, your dog may be dehydrated.[3]The longer it takes the skin to return to normal, the more severe the dehydration.[4]Take your dog to the vet so he can get treated with IV fluid.