Keeping Pets Cool During the Dog Days of Summer

Don’t let summer’s scorching temperatures get the best of your pet this year. While you’re having fun in the sun with Fido, Veterinarian Dr. Carol Osborne, DVM shares a few tips to help keep your canine cool, safe and comfortable so you can both enjoy the outdoors.

Imagine if you were wrapped in a fur coat and couldn’t take it off-heat can play havoc on our 4-legged friends, so here are a few tips to keep Fido as cool as a cucumber

Don’t let your pet become a victim of this summer’s heat! High tech canine collars are the rage.

Today’s health and activity trackers offer reliable indicators of your dog’s temperature, heart rate, activity and much more.

Voyce is just one example of a wearable canine tech collar. They help protect pets from heat exhaustion by alerting pet owners when their dog’s body temperature is at risk.

Signs of Canine Heat Stroke

In addition to panting, drooling and staggering, dogs will often have an increased heart rate and an elevated body temperature. Many canines become lethargic, won’t eat and often vomit and get diarrhea. This veterinarian and author has treated several canines for heat exhaustion and dehydration this summer.

If your dog is getting too hot, the Voyce alerts pet owners by sending a text to their phone . It also shares data with your vet.

Pet owners can even set the Voyce to control amount of sunlight their pet is exposed to each day to help avoid sunburns and protect from skin cancer.

Pet Sunblock: Look for pet sunblock with SPF 30+.

Remember no zinc oxide for pets. Pets most sun sensitive areas include the tip of the nose, the ears, feet, and tail.

Note that unlike people with sweat glands all over their body, Dogs can’t sweat!

Dogs can only open their mouth and pant to lose heat and lower their body temperature. Some dogs need a little extra help to stay cool, especially flat faced breeds like Frenchie’s, Pugs and Boston Terriers. Other dogs more prone to the heat include those that are overweight, very young, seniors and dogs with very thick hair coats.

Make your Backyard into a Pet Water Park

Fun, Cool Summertime Games & Gadgets are Great for Pets & Kids

Buy a kiddie wading pool and some fun water gear. Makeup ice cube trays, cool pops, even crushed ice. Turn on a sprinkler and be creative. Most pet owners find that their pets and kids splash, play, have a ball and stay cool.