from the Sun Times

The dog days of summer: living with the heat

Yep, Summer’s here. We’re lucky. We can escape to our homes and air conditioning. But what effects does the weather have on our dogs? The answer may seem obvious but let’s look at some ways to make our canines’ lives a bit easier.

Heat impacts each individual dog differently. All require acclimation, especially if you have a new dog or have recently moved from cooler places. Even though my dogs reside here, I take the extra time to acclimate them properly. To do this, simply adjust your schedule. Exercise the dog during the cooler times of the day or at night. As he becomes used to the heat, extend his exercise into the hotter parts of the day. Shorten your walks and keep a sharp lookout for signs of overheating. Gradually increase their exposure to the heat.

Some people shave their dogs for summer. This act of kindness can harm them. Talk to your vet, but most breeds have a coat that is engineered to protect them from the elements. The sun is an element. The hair protects sensitive skin from the effects of the sun’s rays. Against unprotected skin, those rays overheat a dog much quicker than any type of coat. Your dog can be clipped. I do it to some of mine. Just leave enough hair to protect the skin.

Pay attention to your dog’s shelter. If he is inside most of the day don’t just throw him out in the yard for a couple hours in the afternoon. Rapid changes in a dog’s environment seem most detrimental. Let them out for several short sessions rather than one long one. The humidity will make him drink more so make sure he has water outside also.

If your dog lives outside ensure that ample ventilated shelter is available. A stuffy doghouse is not the answer. Shade is what the dog needs and it must be available during all daylight hours. I have heavy shade cloth over my kennels and easily notice a difference. A tree, porch, roof, tarp, or building will work as long as the dog is free to move with the shade.

Exercise, in my mind, is another component of keeping your dog healthy through the hot summer. A sound body handles environmental stresses more efficiently. Too often I see active dogs “laid up” for the summer. You’re doing them no favors. REDUCE and adjust their regimen but don’t stop working them. Their physical condition will rapidly atrophy and cause the dog more stress later when you have to “rebuild” him. Use common sense and find a suitable “maintenance” regimen for your dog during cooler times.

Talk to your vet about first aid procedures for overheating. Along with fresh water, I carry an electrolyte mixture to help replenish a dehydrated dog. To cool your dog, move him to shade and place him on his back. Pour water on his chest and belly and rub to get the blood flowing faster. The blood vessels are close to the skin here and the cooling process will be more rapid. If possible, submerge the dog in water. The idea is to bring his temperature down quickly.

I’ve never seen a dog die from cold even when subzero temps were the norm. I have, unfortunately, seen the heat take its toll. Folks, it’s not a pleasant sight and is usually avoidable. Bottom line: Water, shade, moderate exercise, and ample attention. Know your first aid procedures for heat exhaustion and exercise good judgment.

Go to Top

[Articles] [Officers and Committee Chairs] [Calendar] [Code of Ethics] [Current Legislation] [Brags!] [Links and Downloads] [Newsletters] [Showing Off]
[Match Photos 2006]