Take care of the dog in the summer heat

Water

It cannot be said enough, because your dog needs access to large amounts of water to get rid of the heat. Put fresh water in many places in the house, car, garden and dog kennel. In an attempt to cool down, many dogs will "play" with the water, and therefore large stable bowls/buckets/vessels must be set up. Also take plenty of water with you on the trip – both to drink and to pour over the dog if it gets too hot.

Extra water

You can entice extra water into the dog (especially puppies and old dogs) by putting water on the dog's food or adding canned food with a little water.

Dehydration

Dehydration can occur if the dog's temperature has risen because it has been in too hot a place or does not have access to enough water. It becomes lethargic, apathetic, gets nauseous and cannot/will not drink itself, or it has diarrhoea, vomits and loses a lot of fluid along the way. The dog can die from dehydration. Immediately offer the dog water, lure it if necessary. to drink by suspending e.g. liver pâté in the water, and see a vet if you suspect dehydration.

Heat stroke

Heat stroke occurs due to overheating. Overheating can typically be caused by hot surroundings or physical exertion in hot weather. A dog on the verge of heat stroke may appear confused or dizzy. If the dog is not treated, it can pass out, go into convulsions and, in the worst case, die. Seek shade immediately and cool the dog by showering it with water. Remember that the water must not be ice cold – it causes the skin's blood vessels to constrict and makes it harder to get rid of the heat. Water with a temperature of 15 – 20 degrees is best, and the cooling works fastest in the areas where there is not too much fur, e.g. in the groin. You can also wring towels dipped in cool water and place them over the dog. Seek veterinary advice if you suspect heat stroke, as there may be a risk of developing shock.

Cooling blanket

You can advantageously use a cooling blanket for your dog

Restore fluid balance

Cooled (not fridge-cold) fresh water can be supplemented with electrolyte powder, which is available over the counter from the vet or. It will restore the dog's electrolyte and fluid balance if it is dehydrated, e.g. after diarrhea or vomiting.

Shade and ventilation

Provide shade everywhere the dog stays, especially dog ​​kennels can get extremely hot. Put up a sun sail or parasol so that the dog can find shade. Open windows, draw curtains and create shade and ventilation where possible.

Cooling

Fill ½ liter plastic bottles with water and put them in the freezer. Put the cold bottles in a large sock and use them as cooling elements in the puppy box or dog basket. Moisten towels with water and put them in the freezer.
Offer the dog a cool place to lie down. ATTENTION! The dog/puppy must be able to opt in and out of being near the cooling element.

Cool snacks

Homemade dog ice cream:

Mix dry food with two cups of water and wait until it is completely soaked.
Mash around and pour the contents into a plastic cup.
Alternatively, you can use wet food or raw meat, depending on what your dog likes best. Put any a carrot or a stick of gum in it.
Put in the freezer for a few hours and voila: a piece. homemade dog ice cream.

Motion

Do not exercise the dog while the sun is out. Go for early morning and late evening walks instead.

（This article is adapted from an article by DANSK KENNEL KLUB. If there is infringement, please contact us to delete)