Aussie summers are tough on pets. Dogs only sweat a little through their paws and cool down mostly by panting, so a 35-degree day that's uncomfortable for us can be dangerous for them. Here's how to keep your dog safe and comfortable when the heat hits.
1. Walk early or late, and check the ground
Save walks for early morning or after sunset. Before you head out, press the back of your hand on the footpath for seven seconds. If it's too hot for your hand, it's too hot for paws. Grass and shaded tracks are much kinder than bitumen or sand in the middle of the day.
2. Never leave your dog in the car
Even with the windows down and parked in the shade, a car heats up to dangerous temperatures within minutes. If you can't take your dog inside with you, leave them at home.
3. Give them a cool place to lie
Dogs naturally look for a cool spot. A cooling gel mat stays cooler than the floor without needing a fridge or power, and a raised cot bed lets air flow underneath instead of trapping heat like a cushioned bed. Put either one in a shaded, breezy spot, out of the afternoon sun.
4. Keep fresh water topped up
Dogs drink a lot more in summer. Put out more than one bowl, keep them in the shade, and drop in a few ice cubes on hot days. A pet water fountain keeps water moving and filtered, which encourages fussy drinkers (and cats) to drink more.
5. Make cooling down fun
Water play is a great way to burn energy without overheating. A splash pad sprinkler in the backyard keeps most dogs entertained for ages. If you're heading to the beach or river, a dog life jacket with a rescue handle is worth having, especially for older dogs or weaker swimmers.
6. Take extra care with at-risk dogs
Flat-faced breeds like pugs, French bulldogs and British bulldogs struggle to cool themselves by panting, so they overheat much faster. Puppies, senior dogs, overweight dogs and those with thick coats need extra care too. Keep their exercise short and gentle on warm days.
Know the signs of heatstroke
Watch for heavy panting that won't settle, lots of drool, very red or pale gums, wobbliness, vomiting or diarrhoea, and unusual tiredness. If you notice these signs, move your dog somewhere cool, wet their coat with cool (not icy) water, offer small sips of water, and call your vet straight away. Heatstroke is an emergency, even if your dog seems to improve.
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