Why You Need To Keep Your Dogs Cool In The Heat

by Sarah

The sun is finally shining and summer truly feels like it’s here, which is why dog owners need to make sure they are being vigilant when it comes to keeping their pets cool, as high temperatures can cause havoc to their health. 

Here are the reasons why you need to keep your dogs as cool as possible during these hot days.

- Prevent heatstroke

The major risk of overheating for dogs is heatstroke. This can happen as they are unable to sweat effectively, so they can struggle to regulate their temperature. 

This makes them more susceptible to heatstroke, particularly if they are going on walks or doing exercise during the hottest parts of the day. 

Signs of heatstroke include lethargy, excessive panting, redness of the skin, purple gums, vomiting, diarrhoea, and even unconsciousness. 

If your dog has heatstroke, it is essential to move them out of the sunlight and put them somewhere cool, stop them exercising, and fan them. Offer them some water to drink and wet their coat before taking them to a vet.

- Organ damage

If left untreated, heatstroke can cause organ damage, as the dog’s internal temperature rises too much. 

This is why it is essential to take your pet to the vet as soon as you suspect they have heatstroke, as 98 per cent of dogs that are seen with early signs are able to be treated. 

- Death

In some cases, severe heatstroke can even be fatal, with one in seven dogs that are taken to the vets with heatstroke not making it. 

Dogs that are most at risk of complications with heatstroke are those that are big or overweight, flat-faced, older, have long or thick fur, have health issues, or are energetic. 

Keeping your pet’s fur trimmed with regular cockapoo grooming can help keep them cool during the summer months, as well as walking them at cooler times of the day and keeping them hydrated.