Our home base in the South Carolina Midlands is known for being warm, but when we’re hit with a heatwave things can go from “warm” to “way too hot” quickly! If we’re feeling it, our furry friends are definitely feeling it. Don’t worry! There are things you can do to keep your pet safe in high temperatures.
First, it’s important to recognize the signs of heatstroke in pets.
Be on the lookout for excessive panting, vomiting, red gums, diarrhea, stumbling, and fatigue. If your dog’s heart rate is elevated or they get dehydrated, those can also be signs of heat stroke! Since dogs can’t cool themselves down with sweat like we can, they might start feeling sick from the heat long before you do.
If you see these signs, take your dog to a vet for help! Try to help them cool down while traveling. You can drape room temperature wet towels over them or keep them in front of a fan while getting help. Just don’t use ice! Ice can shock a dog in heat stroke.
How can we avoid heatstroke to begin with?
Keep an eye on the temperature outside. Dogs naturally have a higher body temperature than us so they’re starting with more heat than we’re used to. Because of that, it’s generally best to avoid taking your dog outside for more than a quick potty break when temperatures rise above 90 degrees fahrenheit. If it’s over 70 degrees where you are, it’s best to limit your dog’s activity so they’re not doing anything too strenuous.
Make sure your dog has access to a good amount of shade if they do go outside with you. You’ll want to help them avoid direct sunlight. Remember that the ground might also be hot! Walk in grass or use booties to keep your pet’s paws safe from burns.
While we’re dealing with a heat wave, it might be best to skip the daily walk and play some games inside instead. You can set up a game of hide and seek with hidden treats around your house, test out an enrichment toy, or teach a new trick! They’ll be much happier and excited to hang out in the air conditioning.
Water is key. Make sure your best friend has plenty of clean water at all times! You can also keep them hydrated with homemade frozen treats, bone broths, and wetter foods that provide extra moisture. If you have a small pool or sprinklers, you can also encourage playing in water to keep cool and get extra water in your pet’s system.
Here are some of our favorite things to have on hand when it’s hot outside!
Wagwellies Mojave
Wagwellies are already one of our favorite summer must-haves but the Mojave designs have holes on the top to let your pet’s feet breathe. Dogs can’t sweat but they can expel some heat by panting and through their paw pads. This design with holes allows that heat to escape instead of trapping it around your pet’s paws.
Pupsicle and Treat Mix
We love the Pupsicle toy as an enriching activity for energetic dogs who might struggle with being stuck inside. It encourages licking, a natural calming behavior for dogs, and acts as a puzzle for them to solve. Combine it with a treat mix for a delicious frozen treat. Just add water to the treat mix, pour it in the treat tray mold, and freeze for a refreshing snack!
Travel First Aid Kit
We like to keep this first aid kit on hand in case of any emergency. If your pet burns its paws, you’ll have the supplies to clean and bandage the injury so it’s easier to transport your pup to the vet. Our staff keeps these in their cars so they’re ready for anything!
Scent Work Kit
This scent work kit is one of our favorite finds. If you’re looking for a fun game to play inside or something new to train, this kit has all the tools and a step by step guide to get the fun started. This game will have your dog sniffing and exploring until they’re ready to settle down for a nap.