Hot dogs - Helping dogs deal with the hot temperatures
As temperature soar this summer, most pet owners are looking for ways to help their pets deal with the heat. Here are some tips to help your dog cool down.
Try Frozen Treats
Dogs love slurping on a nice cool treat in the hot weather, and an icy pole or ice cream can also help them to stay hydrated in the hot weather. Try cutting the top off an empty plastic milk bottle or soft drink bottle, filling it with water and freezing it overnight. Then you can leave the big ice block to melt over the day and keep the doggy water cool. While dogs will enjoy people ice cream and icy pole, these can have ingredients that are not good for dogs such as chocolate or fruits and can cause diarrhea. Keep your dog safe from digestive upsets by buying cool dog-safe treats from your vet or pet store.
Go for a dip
Dogs love going for a swim and cooling off in the water, so a hot day is a great excuse to go to the river or the beach for a swim. If you live a fair distance from the water and don't have a pool, you can also buy a children's wading pool and leave it under the shade for your dog to play in. They also like getting a spray from a garden hose on a warm day.
A cool place to nap
If your dog hangs out outside while you are work, make sure they have a nice and shady place to nap during the day. If you don't naturally have shade, consider setting up a kennel or small tent and laying a cool pad under a towel so that they have somewhere cool to lay during the day.
Keep an eye on them
As dogs cool down by panting, it's all too easy for them to become dehydrated and heat stressed during hot weather. If your dog becomes confused and lethargic, trying cooling them down by pouring cool water over them. If they pass out, vomit or are unresponsive you should take to a vet for review and treatment. They may require veterinary help such as IV re-hydration.
Caring for your animals by planning for the hot weather is an important aspect of being an Australian pet owner. If you need some extra products to help them deal with the heat, such as icy snacks or a cool pack, you should schedule a veterinary consultation.