Year after year, the effects of climate change are becoming more apparent. It had been predicted that El Nino or the warming of the oceans’ surface would largely influence the 2024 summer. It appears that its hold has been pretty strong so far.
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DehydrationHeatstrokeFlea AllergiesLyme Disease
Experts have already voiced the possibility of 2024 being the hottest year on record. If we are practically melting in the sultry weather, it’s even worse for our pets. Due to thermoregulation, dogs have a higher internal body temperature than humans.
This makes it extremely crucial for pet parents to stay vigilant against common summer health hazards. In this article, we will discuss the four most common and dangerous ones along with preventative measures.
Dehydration
One of the greatest dangers to your dogs’ health and summer fun is dehydration. Though dogs have sweat glands, they do not sweat as much as humans. Their primary means of cooling down is panting. In case of excessive panting, it’s possible that they may feel fatigued and dehydrated.
A lack of water intake and a diet that primarily involves kibble or dry food will only accelerate the onset of dehydration. According to the American Kennel Club, the typical symptoms of canine dehydration include –
- A loss of appetite
- Thick saliva
- Sunken eyes
- Excessive panting
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Lethargy or reduced energy levels
To prevent your pet from getting dehydrated, have a supply of cool water nearby in the form of a hose or wet towel. Also, give them sufficient water to drink. In case your pet is picky, consider mixing some bone broth with the water or offer them ice cubes to chew. Furthermore, feed them a balanced diet that includes part dry and part wet food, at least during the summer.
Heatstroke
This summer hazard also has to do with the fact that dogs cannot dissipate body heat as easily as humans. Their only way to regulate body temperature is to pant or release sweat via paw pads and the nose.
When a canine’s body temperature becomes dangerously high and they are unable to cool down quickly, a heatstroke becomes inevitable. According to the People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals or PETA, over 160 companion animals (including dogs) died due to the 2023 summer heat.
They were left outside or inside hot cars. Another 850+ were rescued from the heat as they barely survived. This year, 14 animals have already died and 24 have been rescued. Pet parents must prevent their dog’s body temperature from rising abnormally.
Here are some ways to keep your pooch safe this summer –
- Avoid leaving them inside cars even for a quick errand.
- Ensure your pet has access to sufficient water and shade at all times.
- Do not take your dog for a walk during the hottest parts of the day. Also, avoid letting them participate in strenuous exercises.
- Keep your pooch away from hot surfaces like concrete, sand, etc., that reflect heat.
Flea Allergies
Dogs may face the threat of flea or tick allergies all year round. However, these parasites like to especially feast upon the host’s body during the warm and humid climate. If your pet is already prone to seasonal allergies, their risk of attracting fleas is higher.
VCA Animal Hospitals states that flea allergy dermatitis can develop among dogs of all ages. The most common symptoms include hair loss, constant itching, scabs and sores, restlessness, and visible fleas or ticks in worst-case scenarios.
Besides making your pooch miserable, fleas threaten to cause infections and other serious conditions. This summer, keep your canine companion safe from fleas and other parasites. There are flea combs and sprays available to monitor your pet’s health.
As a preventative measure, consider feeding them chewable tablets. When administered orally, they can offer comprehensive protection. Plus, they are made palatable for easier administration. For instance – the flavor of Sentinel dog tablets makes them appetizing and suitable for pooches as young as four weeks old.
According to PetCareRx, such tabs can not only control fleas but also keep heartworms and other intestinal parasites at bay. Despite tight prevention measures, take your pet for regular check-ups to stay on the safe side. If the vet suspects any fleas, they will recommend appropriate treatments to curb flea populations before they get out of control.
Lyme Disease
This condition is also the result of a bacterial infection via tick bites. Its risk is greater during summer since such organisms are more active around this time. Lyme disease is a serious problem as it can affect the dog’s heart, brain, joints, and spinal cord.
Canines that spend a lot of time outdoors, especially in wooded areas, are at greater risk of developing this disease. Listed below are some of Lyme disease’s common symptoms –
- Weight loss
- A lack of appetite
- Swelling in joints
- A sudden surge in urination and thirst
- High fever
- Lethargy and lameness
If a dog is diagnosed with this condition, they may be given medicines for joint pain and swelling along with antibiotics to manage the infection. The treatment must continue for 30 days before its effects become visible.
Long story short, summers can be a trying period for our furry companions, much more than it is for us. 2024’s heat wave has gone wild to another level. Parts of the world are still parched in anticipation of the monsoon. Now is not the time to slack on your pet’s ‘beat the heat’ strategies. Follow the tips mentioned in this article and let nothing tank their summer fun.
FAQs
They don't have sweat glands, and most of their body is wrapped in fur with little or no exposed skin. As a result, they lose heat through the pads of their feet and through their mouths by panting. While sunscreen is important for all dogs, some breeds need special consideration when it comes to the sun.
How do dogs survive in hot weather? ›
They don't have sweat glands, and most of their body is wrapped in fur with little or no exposed skin. As a result, they lose heat through the pads of their feet and through their mouths by panting. While sunscreen is important for all dogs, some breeds need special consideration when it comes to the sun.
What is hazardous to dogs? ›
Alcoholic drinks and food products containing alcohol. Avocado (only mildly toxic to dogs and cats, but can be severely toxic, even deadly, to birds, rabbits, horses, and ruminants such as cattle, goats, and sheep) Caffeine (found in a lot of drinks such as coffee, tea, soda, and energy drinks) Chocolate.
How do you keep pets safe in hot weather? ›
Provide your pet with fresh, cool water every day in a tip-proof bowl. Don't force animals to exercise when it is hot and humid. Exercise pets early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Bring water and take breaks in the shade when walking.
What is life threatening to a dog? ›
Items such as antifreeze, multivitamins, chocolate, pest poison, and more are very dangerous. They are also items an animal will ingest willingly. Learn what items are poisonous to your pet and call a vet emergency service immediately if you suspect your animal has ingested any poisonous substance.
What temperature is too hot for a dog? ›
Generally, at temperatures above 89° Fahrenheit, most dogs are at risk of heat stroke and you should avoid walking your dog when it's 90°F or hotter. For many dogs, outdoor activity at temperatures above 82°F can be dangerous, and for some dogs even temperatures in the 70°-77° range can be too hot.
How long can a dog stay outside in 90 degree weather? ›
If the temperature is over 90 degrees, do not let your pet outside for more than 10 or 20 minutes. And, make sure they are monitored during that time. If you spot any signs of heat stress, as mentioned above, bring your dog back inside and let it rest for the remainder of the day.
Are bananas good for dogs? ›
Yes, dogs can eat bananas. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They're high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given as a treat, not part of your dog's main diet.
What fruit is not good for dogs? ›
Grapes (and raisins) are very toxic to dogs, though research still hasn't confirmed why. Even one grape or raisin can be fatal or can cause sudden kidney failure in dogs. Tomatoes. A ripened tomato is probably OK, but green parts of the tomato plant have solanine, which is toxic to dogs.
Why can't dogs eat grapes? ›
Why Can't Dogs Eat Grapes? Grape toxicity is linked with kidney damage. Eating the fruit can result in sudden kidney failure and even death. The toxic substance in grapes is unknown, but dogs cannot metabolize tannins, flavonoids, and monosaccharides from grapes.
An ideal temperature doesn't exist for all dogs, since their normal body temperature will vary according to size. Most dogs begin to show signs of overheating when the air temperature is between 81 and 85 degrees F.
At what temperature should pets not be outside? ›
Accordingly, they shouldn't spend longer than 10 to 15 minutes outdoors in temperatures between 10 and 32 degrees Fahrenheit (F), and they shouldn't spend any time outdoors in temperatures less than 10 degrees F.
How can I cool my dog down quickly? ›
8 tricks to cool down your dog in hot weather
- Find your dog a cool spot to rest. ...
- Let your dog have a drink in the shade. ...
- Give your dog freezable dog toys. ...
- Give your dog ice cubes. ...
- Spray your dog with cold water. ...
- Go for a swim. ...
- Cool your dog with a damp towel. ...
- Stay inside.
If you are unable to reach a credible source for guidance and your dog is exhibiting signs of poisoning, induce vomiting using the following: 3% Hydrogen Peroxide: 1 tablespoon. Can repeat after 5 minutes. Immediately effective.
What meat should dogs not eat? ›
Feeding your dog fatty foods, like hot dogs, bacon, ribs, or fried chicken, can upset your dog's stomach and cause vomiting and diarrhea. It can also lead to pancreatitis, which is an inflammation of the pancreas. Some breeds, like Miniature Schnauzers and Yorkshire Terriers, may be more prone to pancreatitis.
What vegetables can dogs not eat? ›
There are some fruits and vegetables that should always be avoided when feeding your dog:
- wild mushrooms, toadstools or fungi – button or white mushrooms should always be cooked.
- onions, leeks, chives and garlic.
- grapes and raisins.
- tomato leaves, stems or unripe young tomatoes.
- green potatoes, potato leaves and stems.
A broken AC can cause extreme overheating and even heat stroke in your pets—they wear fur coats, after all.
Do dogs like fans blowing on them? ›
“You'll see dogs sometimes standing in front of a fan because they like the feel of it,” Klein said, “but it's not necessarily going to cool them in the same way it would a person.” This is because dogs do not eliminate body heat the way humans do.
Do dogs overheat easily? ›
Unlike humans, dogs have a higher body temperature and less ability to cool down. This is because they have fewer sweat glands that are only confined to the nose and foot pads. A dog that is overheating can only regulate body temperature through panting which is highly inefficient during hot weather.
How does panting cool dogs down? ›
It helps dogs cool themselves down because they can't sweat like humans do. Panting allows a dog to rapidly inhale, humidify, then exhale the air. This increases the evaporation of water from your dog's nose and lungs. The evaporation of water cools the body from the inside out.
