9 Ways to Keep your Dog Safe on Walks in the Summer Heat
Hot Diggity Dog! As the sun shines brighter and temperatures rise, we at Rachael’s Rovers know it is crucial to prioritize the safety and well-being of your furry companion during hot weather walks.
High temperatures can pose significant risks to dogs, including dehydration, heatstroke, burned paw pads, and more. To ensure your dog's safety and enjoyment while walking in hot weather, we recommend and have implemented these precautionary measures to follow when walking your dog in hot weather.
1. Time Your Walks Wisely
Timing your dog walks is crucial to avoid the hottest parts of the day. Schedule your outings and bookings during the early morning or late evening when temperatures are cooler. This helps minimize the risk of your dog overheating or burning their paws on hot pavement.
2. Hydration is Key
Just like humans, dogs need to stay hydrated, especially in hot weather. We encourage clients to provide a portable water bottle / collapsible bowl we can offer to your dog during the walk. By encouraging them to drink small amounts regularly you can better prevent dehydration. It is important to avoid allowing your dog to drink from puddles or stagnant water sources, as they may contain harmful bacteria.
3. Protect Your Dog's Paws
Hot pavement, asphalt, or sand can cause severe burns on your dog's paw pads. Before stepping out, check the ground temperature by placing your hand on it for a few seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Opt for walking on grassy areas or shaded paths whenever possible. Consider using paw wax or protective booties to provide an additional layer of insulation and prevent burns.
4. Optimize Shade and Rest Breaks
During hot weather walks, ensure your dog has access to shaded areas to rest and cool down. Trees, canopies, or shaded benches can provide relief from the sun's intense heat. Encourage your dog to rest and take breaks frequently, especially if they show signs of fatigue or excessive panting.
5. Avoid Overexertion
Hot weather can quickly exhaust your dog, leading to heat-related issues. Pay attention to signs of fatigue, excessive panting, or reluctance to continue walking. Adjust the intensity and duration of the walk according to your dog's fitness level and the prevailing weather conditions. Shorter walks, light play sessions, or indoor activities might be more appropriate during exceptionally hot days.
6. Protect Against Sunburn
Dogs with light-colored or thin fur are more susceptible to sunburn. Apply pet-safe sunscreen, particularly to areas with less hair, such as the nose, ears, and belly. Consult your veterinarian for suitable sunscreen recommendations to prevent sunburn and potential skin damage.
7. Be Mindful of Hot Cars
Never leave your dog unattended in a parked car, even for a few minutes. On a hot day, temperatures inside a car can rise rapidly, leading to life-threatening conditions within minutes. It's best to leave your dog at home and book a drop in visit or walk if you cannot bring them inside with you at your destination.
8. Recognize Signs of Heatstroke
Educate yourself on the signs of heatstroke in dogs, including excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and collapse. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek immediate veterinary care. In the meantime, move your dog to a cooler area, apply cool (not cold) water to their body, and offer small sips of water.
9. Update Your Time to Pet Weather Preferences
On your pet profiles we have dedicated a section where you can specify the hottest and coldest temperature your pet is comfortable walking in. In the even the weather is not safe for your pet to be walked clients have the option to shorten the duration of their walk, change their walk to a drop in or reschedule their booking.
Conclusion
Walking your dog in hot weather requires extra caution and consideration. By following these safety measures, the Rachael’s’ Rovers team and pet owners can ensure your dog stays safe, comfortable, and healthy during their outdoor adventures. Remember, your dog's well-being should always take precedence, so be proactive in monitoring their behaviour, staying hydrated, seeking shade.
Marco drinking out of a portable water dish!
Mabel taking a shade and toy break to cool off!
Frankie & Kenzie adventuring the cooler gravel paths.
Midge enjoying some shadier paths in the park!
