Arizona summers are unlike any other. We have over 100 degree temperatures every day, we get a wild monsoon season and terrible dust storms. We all try to find ways to keep ourselves cool and healthy despite the blistering temperatures.
While we are hot, so are our dogs. They are just as hot as you, but they can’t express it in the same way we can. There are ways that you can help keep your pooch safe, cool and healthy during these upcoming sweltering desert months.
These are our summer pet safety tips to help you cool your dog down as weather heats up.
Dangerous Temperatures
The Humane Society wants everyone to remember to NEVER leave a pet alone in a car. Even if you leave the windows cracked, your pet can still get overheated. What you may not realize is how much higher temperatures in a car can be versus the temperature outside.
In cooler places, with a high of 85 degrees, the temperature in your car can climb up to 120 degrees after 30 minutes! That’s crazy! Why would you leave your dog alone through that? Don’t bring your dog if they’re just going to sit alone in your hot car.
When we first brought our family dog home, it was the middle of July, and July in Arizona is HOT. One day, while trying to take our new puppy for a walk, he wouldn’t go on the concrete and ran underneath a parked car seeking shade. What we didn’t consider was how hot the concrete was on his sensitive paws.
Think about how hot the ground is on your bare feet – the same goes for your dog. It is always a good idea to walk your dog on grass, rather than super-heated concrete, to spare their paws.
Plus, dogs sweat differently than humans; they release sweat through their mouth, feet and ears which doesn’t allow them to dissipate heat like humans can. If you notice your pup is getting overheated, cool them down and get them wet to help them out.
Staying Cool and Hydrated
You can purchase collapsible dog bowls, online or in stores that easily fold up and can fit into a purse, backpack or briefcase. It’s a good way to keep your pup hydrated in hot summer weather.
It is also important to provide your dog with ample shade! The Humane Society notes: “Any time your pet is outside, make sure he or she has protection from heat and sun and plenty of fresh, cold water. In heat waves, add ice to water when possible. Tree shade and tarps are ideal because they don’t obstruct air flow. A doghouse does not provide relief from heat—in fact, it makes it worse.”
We all want to beat the summer heat. You can do this with your pet! Play in the sprinkler, go for a swim, splash around in the pool, sit under some shade and enjoy some ice cold water.
