Keeping Your Dog Safe in a Heatwave

So today it reached 34C in London, UK. A country not known for it’s hot summers (we are famous for rain!!). Sadly, because of our normally crappy weather, noone is remotely prepared for this heatwave. I tried to purchase an air conditioner and the waiting list is 5 weeks!!! None of the shops have air conditioning, nor do any mode of public transport. We just aren’t prepared for it and sadly our pooches are suffering.

So apart from putting the AC on, here are some tips to keep your pup cool as the temperatures rise

Sunscreen for pets
Dogs can get sunburned, especially on the ears and nose, and they can get skin cancer just like people. You can find sunscreen made for dogs, but any PABA-free sunscreen will work, says Dr. Susan Nelson,Kansas State University

Sunscreen is especially important for short haired and light colored dogs where you need to apply all over your pets body. Most dogs are fine with just applying sunscreen to their ears and nose.

Lots of water
Be sure your pet always has access to fresh water, especially if you’re spending the entire day out in the city  or at the beach. You can add ice cubes to water so that it stays cold longer.

Heatstroke is a common problem for dogs in the summer so make sure you are not leaving your pet in a room with no air conditioning, in a hot car for a long, or in constant direct sunlight.

If your dog doesn’t like drinking water, try some DIY ice pops for dogs or a little chicken stock mixed into their food.

Make sure they are in the shade. Always walk on the shaded side of the street and use shaded dog runs and under trees as a preferable place to exercise your pooch.

Limit their exercise. If they are playing all day in the sun, it can really take a toll on them. Take your dog out first thing in the morning and later in the day when the temperatures drop.

Avoid hot flooring. Pavement can get really hot in the summer and walking on it can hurt your dogs paws just as much as it would hurt your feet. Consider protecting your dogs pads and don’t encourage them to walk on hot grates. Even be careful at home and encourage your dog to rest on a cooling mat (like the one above)