When the heat has been pouring from the sky for many days, everyone is looking for ways to help themselves a little. Most often we reach for chilled drinks, run away from the sun or take cool showers. While we can consciously help ourselves, it’s not so easy for dogs.
Dogs are average at keeping their bodies cool
The fact that mother nature created both humans and dogs in such a way that we are not completely defenseless against high temperatures. We have developed various mechanisms for this, e.g. faster breathing or sweating. Interestingly, the latter does not apply to dogs, because they have sweat glands only on the bottoms of their paws, which are insufficient when it is above 30 degrees outside. They balance their body temperature mainly through short but quick inhalations and exhalations. Breeds with short snouts and dark coats are worse, which attracts the sun’s rays even more.
Not always the dog’s body copes well with the fight against heat on its own. Paws are often burned as a result of walking on hot asphalt. It is also not uncommon for dogs to get heatstroke. Therefore, every owner who cares about the well-being of their pet should know what to do to minimize this risk as much as possible.
How to cool a dog? You don’t have to spend millions of coins
To bring relief to our pet, it is necessary to provide him with shelter from light. If his couch is in the sun, let’s move it to a cooler place. It is also worth giving him access to a tiled floor, e.g. in the bathroom, and – of course – fresh, cool water. If our dog is mainly outside, make sure that his kennel or playpen is not exposed to direct sunlight. A good option is to set up a pool or bowl of water that they can go in and cool off. There are also gadgets available in stores that help on hot days. They include e.g. bowls that cool the water, and cooling mats for dogs to lie on.
How to keep your dog cool while walking? Remember to take him out when the temperature is not the highest during the day, i.e. in the early morning and late evening. Walks should be short and not too far. It is worth protecting dog’s paws against hot surfaces, e.g. with special balms, or at least carry water in which they can soak them.
Some give their pets cool snacks. Dog ice cream is a popular idea. You can buy them at pet stores or prepare them yourself from products that are safe for them, such as banana, apple or frozen broth. Ice cream for dogs – as in the case of those for humans – should be served in moderation, as a snack, not a fixed part of the diet.
Source: Gazeta
Bruce is a talented author and journalist with a passion for entertainment . He currently works as a writer at the 247 News Agency, where he has established himself as a respected voice in the industry.
