Eight Tips to Protect Your Dog from the Heat

Just like people, dogs do not cope well with extreme heat. To make things easier for them and prevent the risk of heatstroke, here are a few tips you should follow during the summer.

1. Watch out for heatstroke

Symptoms include panting, lethargy, drooling, vomiting and weakness. If you suspect your dog has heatstroke, take it to the vet immediately, as it can lead to permanent organ damage and death. Dogs with shorter muzzles are particularly sensitive, as are very young and very old dogs.

2. Water

Make sure your dog always has enough water available.

3. Cool your dog down

Leave a fan running in the room where the dog stays, or drop an ice cube into its water.

4. Do not leave your dog in the car

Never leave your dog in the car, even if you have left a window slightly open or turned on the air conditioning. The temperature inside a car can rise very high in just a few minutes.

5. Walk your dog in the morning and evening

The intensity of the heat at midday can be too much for your dog. Walk it in the morning and in the evening, when the sun is not so strong.

6. Do not leave your dog outside for more than a few minutes

Even in the shade, a dog is exposed to high temperatures and can suffer heatstroke.

7. Avoid hot asphalt

Your dog's paws can very easily get burnt on a hot surface, so avoid walks on asphalt and sand.

8. Brush your dog regularly

A clean, well-kept coat will cool the dog and protect it from the sun. If you want to have it clipped, always leave at least a little hair so that the skin is not directly exposed to the sun.

Source: INDEX.HR