Helping Fido Beat the Heat

The dog days of summer are just about here! Our canine friends love fun summer activities, like visiting parks or going swimming, but the heat can be very dangerous for them. Read on as a Tipp City, OH vet offers advice on keeping your dog cool.

Keeping Fido hydrated is very important! Make sure your pup always has plenty of fresh water.

Fido will be both happier and more comfortable indoors, in climate-controlled rooms. If your pet does spend time outside, make sure he has plenty of shade, and don’t leave him outside very long in hot weather.

Many of us love to cool off with a cold snack on hot days. Make Fido his own doggy ice cream by mixing plain yogurt with natural peanut butter, bananas, pureed pumpkin, or sodium-free broth. You can also add toppings, like bacon bits; plain, shredded meat; or crushed-up dog biscuits.

It’s very easy for Fido to get dangerously overheated when running around in the heat. Don’t encourage your pet to play during the hottest hours of the day. Walk and play with your pooch in the morning and at dusk, when it isn’t quite as hot.

Watch for signs that your canine buddy is overheating. Panting and drooling are early warning signs. More serious symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and discolored gums. If you see any of these red flags, immediately give him water, get him out of the sun, take steps to cool him off, and call your vet.

Brushing Fido’s coat will remove dead hair and dander from his fur, and will help keep him cooler and more comfortable.

Protect your canine buddy from painful paw burns and blisters by using paw balm or wax, and keeping him on soft ground as much as possible. Be sure to keep your pet’s nails clipped as well.

Many dogs love to splash around in water. Get your furry pal a kiddie pool to play in on hot days.

Never leave your dog in a parked car, even for a moment. This is extremely dangerous! If you can’t take Fido inside with you where you’re going, leave him safe and sound at home.

Do you have questions about caring for your dog? Contact us, your Tipp City, OH animal clinic, anytime. We are here to help!