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Water
Water should always be available to your pets. As they can´t express their thirst, dogs fall under a greater risk of dehydration, especially aggravated by the heat. With such active lifestyles, dogs should drink between 15-45ml/kg/day on average.
Look out for symptoms of dehydration in your dogs, including the loss of appetite, vomiting, panting, sunken eyes, reduced energy and dry nose. It is also a good idea to let your dog in the pool if possible or sprinkle water on them to cool off; something which can also become a fun activity with the kids.
Pavements
Unlike us, dogs don´t have the protection of shoes; when walking on sizzling hot pavements in the summer, they experience a terrible amount of pain. A hot surface can cause minor to severe burns on your dog´s paw pads; it is not just uncomfortable but can also lead to overheating and even heat strokes.
To see whether the pavement is too hot for your dog, use a simple 5-second rule. Place the back of your hand on the pavement; if you can´t keep it there for five seconds, it´s too hot for your dog´s paws. Consider walking your dog early mornings or late afternoons, which will be more refreshing for you too.
Cars
It is absolutely prohibited to leave your dog in a hot car, even for a short time; it will inevitably lead to a heat stroke and could even result in death. The only way to prevent this is not to do it.
Although some believe that shaving your dog will not keep them cool, it will only make them more susceptible to sunburn and skin damage. Leaving windows slightly open is similarly useless, as it doesn´t help to reduce the temperature inside the car.
Most importantly, stay aware of the well-being of your pets and watch their behaviour to make sure they´re not overheated or too exposed to the sun; only with caring for each member of the family, can the summer be truly enjoyed.
