How Hot Is It????????
How Hot Is It???
Proudly headquartered in Houston, TX, Team Wag Tantrum knows heat! But this summer is trying for even the hardiest of us! As temps heat up across the country, we thought it would be a good idea to review some basic safety tips for the hot summer weather.
Provide Ample Shade and Water. Duh…sounds fairly common sense, doesn’t it. But it’s the easiest thing you can do and it’s worth repeating. In this excessive heat, be sure your pup has a shady spot to get out of the sun’s direct rays. A covered porch, well-ventilated doghouse or tree-shaded spot is important. Or take a cue from Wag Tantrum and bring them into the air-conditioned house and let them get cool and comfy under the ceiling fan. Whichever works best for you, make sure your pup has a safe, comfortable spot to keep cool. And while you’re at it, make sure that water bowl is always full of fresh, clean water. If your pooch is outside for a long time, consider a couple of bowls of water just to make sure she has enough until you get home. Dehydration is easy to prevent…so do it! Another good trick is to help your pooch stay hydrated with healthy dog food that has water in it. Frozen organic dog food can provide some extra hydration in these hot months.https://www.humanesociety.org/resources/keep-pets-safe-heat
Avoid Walks During Peak Heat Hours. Again, seems like common sense but just as a reminder you don’t want to be walking at high noon and neither does your dog! Team Wag Tantrum doesn’t like to miss walks so the summer start time is 6:00 a.m. If we can do it, so can you! And don’t forget to check the temp on the pavement…these scorching summers bring asphalt and concrete to astronomically high temps. So, touch the pavement and if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your pup. Opt for a grassy area or protective booties for your dog’s feet. http://www.vets-now.com/summer/your-dog-walking-temperature-guide/
Never Leave A Dog in a Parked Car. Not even for a minute while you run into the store. The temps inside a vehicle can skyrocket in a few minutes even if you leave the windows cracked. Heatstroke and fatal consequences can occur rapidly. Leave your pooch at home when you’re running errands during these hot summer months. https://aspca.org/news/dogs-hot-cars-and-other-summer-dangers
Watch Out for Heatstroke. Dogs are susceptible to heatstroke so your job as a pet parent is to be vigilant for signs such as excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, dark or bright red gums and collapse. If you see any of these symptoms move your dog to a cool area and offer her water. Then call your vet. Don’t fool around…heatstroke is serious business. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice-health/heatstroke-in-dogs/
Use Cooling Techniques. Just like for people, a dip in refreshing cool water can be just the ticket when your pup is hot. Shallow pools, sprinklers or even a big pool with plenty of adult supervision can be just the right thing. Also consider a cooling mat or wet towel. You can even gently mist your dog with water if a pool isn’t an option. https://preventativevet.com/dogs/how-to-keep-your-dog-cool
Bottom line…watch out for summer heat. It’s as hard on your pup as it is on you so find some shade, cool water or better yet a pool and wait for the crazy heat to pass! And in the meantime, remember to hydrate your pup with lots of water and feed her a healthy dog food that will help her stay hydrated as well! Wag Tantrum, fresh dog food delivery – right to your front door!
