It’s going to get hotter, more uncomfortable in the next couple of months. The weatherman has warned that April and May, already among the hottest months of the year, could get even warmer due to the lingering impact of the El Nino phenomenon, which causes drier, hotter weather over South-east Asia. As the sun shines brighter and temperatures rise, it's important to remember that our furry companions also feel the heat. In fact, with their thick coats, they can feel the heat much more than humans! It's crucial to take proactive measures to ensure our pups stay cool and comfortable during hot spells, and here are some top tips to help you keep your dogs safe and beat the heat.

Keep Your Pups Hydrated In & Outdoors

Dogs need plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in hot weather. Always ensure that your dog has access to fresh, clean water throughout the day. Consider placing multiple water bowls around your home and refill them regularly. When you're out for a walk or spending time outdoors, bring a portable travel water bottle for your furry friend. We like the Field and Wander 2-in-1 Stainless Steel Travel Bottle For Dogs & Cats (With Bowl & Carabiner). It’s a water bottle and water bowl combo, and comes with a quick-release carabiner so you can clip it onto your bag or leash.

Avoid Outdoor Activities During Peak Heat Hours

Plan your outdoor activities with your dog during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening. Avoid walking or exercising your dog during the hottest hours, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Asphalt and concrete can heat up quickly and burn your dog's paw pads, so stick to grassy areas or use protective booties like this Ruffwear Grip Trex™ All-Terrain Dog Boots if you need to venture out during peak heat hours. During hot weather, it's essential to adjust your dog's exercise routine to prevent overexertion. Limit vigorous activities such as running or playing fetch, and opt for shorter, more leisurely walks instead. Pay attention to your dog's cues and watch for signs of fatigue or distress. If your dog seems overly tired or reluctant to continue, it's time to head indoors and let them rest in a cool, comfortable environment.

Watch for Signs of Dog Heatstroke

It's essential to recognize the signs of heatstroke in dogs and take immediate action if you notice any symptoms. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, rapid heartbeat, vomiting, and collapse. If you suspect your dog is suffering from heatstroke, move them to a cool area, offer water, and wet their fur with cool (not cold) water. Contact your veterinarian immediately for further guidance and treatment. Dogs are susceptible to heatstroke and dehydration in hot weather. For more information on the dangers of heatstroke and first aid tips, refer to our earlier article titled Heatstroke in Dogs.

Provide Cooling Dog Accessories

Help your dog beat the heat by providing cooling accessories such as cooling mats, vests, or bandanas. These products are designed to absorb and dissipate heat, keeping your dog's body temperature regulated. You can also make DIY cooling aids by freezing a damp towel or providing frozen treats for your dog to enjoy on hot days. Do check out these Ruffwear Swamp Cooler cooling accessories. These can be a lifesaver during hot days!

• Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Core™ Harness & Pack Add-On. This Swamp Cooler Core™ is an add-on to your dog’s Ruffwear body harness. It’s compatible with Ruffwear’s Web Master™ (https://gooddogpeople.com/products/ruffwear-web-master-dog-harness-with-handle-slate-blue), Approach Pack™ and Palisades™ Pack. Before attaching to the harness, please activate the Swamp Cooler Core with water. Wet it with water.
• Ruffwear Swamp Cooler™ Cooling Dog Neck Gaiter. An everyday cooling neck wrap for dogs. Soak the gaiter in water to activate the cooling tech. This neck gaiter is made with a lightweight spandex material, and is UPF rated to 50+.
• PETKIT Pet Cooling Mat. Lay a few pieces of cooling mats around the house and on your dog’s bed to help him rest comfortably. This pet cooling mat contains a polymer resin gel which maintains a cool temperature. The gel rapidly absorbs heat while your pup sleeps on it, keeping him cool all night long.

Trim Your Dog's Fur

While it may seem counterintuitive, trimming your dog's fur can actually help them stay cooler in hot weather. However, be cautious not to shave your dog's coat too short, as their fur provides insulation and protection from the sun's harmful rays. Opt for a moderate trim that removes excess hair while still leaving enough to shield their skin from sunburn and overheating.

Never Leave Your Dog in a Hot Car

This cannot be stressed enough – never leave your dog unattended in a parked car, even for a few minutes. The interior of a car can heat up rapidly, reaching dangerous temperatures within minutes, even with the windows cracked open. On a hot day, leaving your dog in a car can quickly lead to heatstroke, organ failure, or even death. If you need to run errands, leave your dog at home where it's safe and cool.

Our furry friends rely on us to ensure their safety and well-being. As temperature soars, it's not just about comfort—it can be a matter of life and death. These essential hot weather tips not only provide physical relief to your dog but also safeguard them against potentially fatal heat-related conditions like dehydration and heatstroke. A little extra care and attention go a long way in keeping your dog safe in the heat. So, as the sun beats down, let's remain vigilant, keeping a watchful eye on our furry kids, ensuring they have access to shade, water, and a cool environment.

KATHERINE KHOO

Katherine is a Pet Nutrition Specialist and GDP’s Pet Wellness Advisor. She is committed to helping pet owners make informed dietary and lifestyle choices in nurturing healthy pets. Katherine is also a practicing Nutritional Therapist (human nutrition) and has been helping hundreds of clients to heal naturally with nutrients.