At Home Insulation ATX we love our furry coworkers and do everything we can do to keep them cool in the hot Austin summers. Dogs can have a hard time regulating their temperature, and heatstroke can come on quickly with deadly consequences. With extreme heat becoming more and more common, this list of tips will help keep your pup comfortable and safe this summer.
Dog breeds at highest risk for heatstroke
As all dog owners know, all breeds are not created equal. Some dogs are much more likely to suffer heat stroke than others. In general, older and heavier dogs are at a higher risk, as well as flat-faced dogs.
A 2020 study found that the following breeds are at the highest risk for heatstroke:
- Chow chow
- Bulldog
- French bulldog
- Dogue de Bordeaux
- Greyhound
- Cavalier King Charles spaniel
- Pug
- Golden retriever
- Springer spaniel
1 in 7 dogs taken to the vet for heatstroke will die.
Common causes of heatstroke in dogs
It’s important for dog owners to know what usually causes heatstroke so they know what situations to avoid with their pet. Here are the most frequently reported causes:
- Over-exercising, or exercising on hot days
- Not being able to cope in hot weather
- Being in a hot vehicle
- Being in a hot building
Watch out for the signs of heatstroke in your dog, such as heavy panting, tongue hanging way outside their mouth, breathing problems, fatigue, vomiting, blood in the stool. Dogs tend to keep going in spite of discomfort, so be extra aware of these symptoms in your dog. If you see them, get them to the vet as soon as possible.
Tips to Keep Your Dog Cool
1. Provide plenty of fresh water
This is the number one tip for a reason. Make sure to bring water when you walk your dog, and have plenty of water inside and outside, wherever your dog has access. You can add ice cubes to your dogs water as well to help them cool off more quickly.
2. Avoid over-exercising
If you’re a dog owner you’re probably aware that dogs tend to hide their discomfort and suffering very well, and often won’t show that they’re struggling until the problem is advanced. That’s why it’s so important for dog owners to pay attention and not wait for the dog to show obvious signs of distress.
Especially energetic dogs will seem enthusiastic and excited to go out and get exercise, even on hot days, so it’s up to us to make sure we’re not overdoing it. When the weather gets really hot, instead of one long walk, try taking your dog for two short walks in the morning and at night.
3. Avoid exercising in the hottest part of the day
Generally speaking, temperatures above 85°F are too hot for dogs to be outside for any significant amount of time. The best thing to do in the summer is to take dogs out early in the morning or after the sun has gone down.
You should also be very aware of the temperature of the sidewalk, because the pads on dogs’ paws burn easily. Feel the sidewalk with your hand. If it’s too hot to touch with the palm of your hand for 10 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog.
4. Keep your house a comfortable temperature
You and your dog will be spending a lot of time inside this summer, so make sure that the inside of your home is as cool as possible. If you don’t want to break the bank with your energy bills, consider updating or installing your attic insulation. This important update to your home prevents temperature fluctuations around and helps your A/C work more efficiently.
Box fans and ceiling fans can also help your dog stay cool. Keep the curtains closed during the day
5. Provide ice packs, wet towels, etc.
There are plenty of gadgets available for purchase to keep your dog cool, or you can DIY with things you already have around the house. Try getting old towels wet and laying them on the ground for your dog. Set up a shallow plastic kiddie pool for your dog to use when they’re out in the yard. If your dog doesn’t want to get in the pool, just getting their fur wet will help bring their temperature down.
Another idea is to wrap reusable ice packs in a towel and place them in your dog’s bed so they have a cool place to rest
6. Provide shade outdoors
If your dog spends time in your yard, take a careful look around and make sure there are plenty of shady areas at all times of day where your dog could rest. Dog houses can be a good option, but a doghouse in the blazing sun at midday will probably be very hot inside.
Instead, consider hanging shade cloth or even a spare tarp between trees, posts, or pillars to give your furry friend a breezy and cool place to rest. You could also set up a beach umbrella or a pop-up canopy.
To keep your dog safe in the heat, follow these tips and pay close attention to your dog’s behavior. With a little extra effort and awareness, you and your pet can enjoy your summer, even on the hottest days.
For more information about updating your attic insulation and to see if you qualify for a free home insulation inspection, click here.
