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Summers in Lake Mary, Sanford, and the surrounding cities often means heat, humidity, and afternoon rainstorms. Even for us humans, venturing outside can be unpleasant. For your dog, even more so.
When temperatures begin to rise, it's easy to remember to prioritize your own health and safety. But what about your dog? Here are a few tips to remember a few tips to keep your dog safe.
Rainy days in Florida often mean high humidity. When the day is already warm, humidity can put your pet in serious danger. Humidity can raise the ambient temperature above comfortable levels, even if the day is not hot.
Dogs cool themselves by panting which causes moisture to evaporate from their lungs, cooling their bodies. If there is too much moisture in the air already, your dog might not be able to cool herself down, as the moisture in their lungs may not evaporate.
On humid days, keep an eye on your dog’s temperature and don’t let them get too warm. If needed, you can help them cool down with water, ice cubes, and cooling mats.
Certain breeds with double coats, like Huskies and Newfoundlands, are especially sensitive to humidity. If your dog has a double coat, take extra precautions on hot and humid days to keep them cool. Remember to brush them regularly to remove excess hair. Shaving your dog’s coat is not always recommended though as the fur helps your dog regulate their temperature.
Just like humans, our furry friends need ample water on hot days to stay cool. Make sure your dog always has water when at home. It’s helpful to take water on walks as well in case your pet needs a drink. There are many products available to provide your dog with water on the go, or you can simply use a bowl and water bottle.
During hot days, stay aware of your furry friend and their comfort. Before going outside to exercise, make sure the ground isn’t too warm for their paws. If your pet typically spends time outside, bring them in on days with high humidity or heat. Keep an eye on the temperature inside your home as well and never leave your dog in a car for any length of time.
Heat and humidity can quickly raise your dog’s temperature beyond safe levels. If you notice heavy painting, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, excessive drooling, vomiting, or unconsciousness, your dog might be suffering heat stroke. Get your dog to a cool area and call your vet.