Normal rules do not apply.
- Got a car or a conservatory? When the temperature is 23 degrees outside, inside a car, temperatures can shoot up to 47 degrees within minutes. Leaving the window open won’t make a dent in this. The only car to which this doesn’t apply is the Tesla which actually has ‘Dog Mode’. Let’s hope more car manufacturers follow suit. Leave your dog at home if you can, or take him into the venue with you. Cars become extremely dangerous, extremely quickly in heat.
- Would you like ice with that sir? Lowering the temperature of your dog’s drinking water can really help lower his overall body temperature. Add ice cubes to your dog’s water and ensure that the water is in the shade or indoors. Change the water more frequently than you would usually. Give them multiple ways to drink – sprinklers are great if you have them, pet ice lollies are a winner or even consider dropping tasty treats into a paddling pool of water or their own water bowl. Frozen dog toys or chews are great too – we recommend soaking a rope toy in slightly diluted orange squash and freezing.
- If your dog has exposed skin or fair skin and fur – a pet-friendly sunscreen is a great way to protect their skin. Try this one if you aren’t sure which to go for. All natural – we like it.
- Use fans if you have them and point them at your dog’s bed. But note – in really high temperatures, all fans will do is blow hot air around. Air con is really good – but in the UK, not many of us have it. Closing blinds really helps to keep the heat out, so shut them if you can.
- Walk early in the morning, walk late in the evening, or if you must walk in the day, opt for a shaded walk (woods are great for this) with water. Don’t walk your dog on the pavement or tarmac if you can avoid it. Take a portable water bottle with you. It is best to avoid ball games or anything too strenuous.
- Damp towels for your dog to lie on are a fantastic way to cool him down during a heatwave. We suggest wetting towels and popping them in the freezer. If your dog is hesitant to sit on his towel, if he is crate trained, pop it in his crate with him. Encourage him to lie down with a long-lasting tasty chew like this one.
- Could your dog have a groom? De-shedding and/or clipping curly hair very short can really help. If you aren’t fussed about how your dog looks- grooming at home can be easier than you think and dogs are often a lot more comfortable in the comfort of their own home.
- Add shade and a pool to your garden if you can but note – as the sun moves, you will need to move your shade. Encouraging your dog to swim and splash in water is great – but not all dogs like water, so don’t force him!
For more advice you can call us on 0333 444 1236 or follow us on social media @dogsgolive – we love to hear from you!
