Dogs and summer

MANILA, Philippines – The intense summer heat is certainly nothing to keep cool about, especially when it comes to man’s furry best friend. We humans aren’t the only ones to complain about the scorching sun. Dogs, too, need comfort from the harshness of the tropical climate, sometimes even more than humans. 

Attention, all pet owners! Protect your beloved pooches from heat stroke by keeping in mind these simple tips from Dog Whisperer Caesar Milan.

Tip #1: Schedule walks wisely

Heat varies at different times of the day. When taking dogs out for walks, keep in mind that the coolest times of the day are usually in the morning or at night. The summer heat is not the only thing dogs battle against, but the hot asphalt that can burn their paws as well. Dogs release heat through their paws so allow dogs to wander in grassy areas rather than on cemented roads.

Caesar shares that doggie boots are an effective way to protect dogs’ paws. While dog shoes are uncommon in the Philippines, pet owners must be sensitive in checking for discomforts or irritation dogs may experience with their paws.

Tip #2: Keep dehydration in check

Dogs, unlike humans, cannot sweat; and a tell-tale sign of sunstroke is excessive drooling. A dehydrated dog will become weak and sluggish with bloodshot eyes. If the skin is lifted, it takes longer than usual to go back to its normal position.

An effective way to keep dogs hydrated is to carry around water bottles whenever taking them out for walks. Be aware that dogs absorb heat differently; dogs with dark coats and dogs with more fat and body mass absorb more.

Tip #3: Let them swim, let them be

Be creative with ways to keep your dog cool. Small kiddie pools or basins are effective ways to lower their temperature. When spraying dogs with water, concentrate on their paws and their belly, keeping in mind that dogs cool from the bottom up.

Summer is a season of fun under the sun, and what better way to celebrate it than to splash around in the ocean. Try taking dogs out for a swim once in a while. Not only is it an effective heat repellent, but a great bonding activity as well.

By instinct, dogs dig up holes in the ground to find a cool place to lie down. Allow them to exercise their animal nature while letting them have fun in the process. Discover a shady area where your dogs can dig.

Tip #4: Not in cars, please

Leaving dogs in a parked car is a no-no. A car’s interior collects more heat than the outside environment. Moreover, dogs are prone to claustrophobia and may get overly excited by passers-by, thus increasing the risk of dehydration. 

The summer heat is not something to be dreaded if one knows the proper way to handle it.

Travelling buddies

Summertime is vacation time, and when choosing to bring along dogs, there are several things to keep in mind in order to make the journey hassle free, not only for pets, but for the owners as well. Web MD shares several tips to make your dog’s journey as fun as the destination.

Much like how motion sickness is more commonly experienced by children, puppies and young dogs are more susceptible to vomiting and nausea. This is usually linked to the puppies’ undeveloped ear structures used for balance. Most dogs outgrow this however; it is not unlikely that a dog will associate traveling with vomiting. It is then important to make the ride as comfortable as possible.

Signs of dog motion sickness are inactivity, slowness, uneasiness, yawning, excessive drooling, and vomiting to name a few. Make sure your dog is facing forward, preventing it from sticking its head out the window. Lowering the windows by a portion will also help balance the pressure from the outside and the inside. Another effective trick is lowering the dog’s food intake prior to the trip and giving small treats (best if sugary) right before the voyage. Like in humans, this will lessen and prevent the feeling of nausea.

The most important thing to remember is to know your dog and find personal ways to make the trip easy and enjoyable. – Rappler.com

(How do you care for your pet? How do you bond? Email us your story and photos with subject heading PETS to desk@rappler.com.)

Click on the links below for more.

• ‘It’s a doggy-dog world’
• Who let the Royal Corgi out?
• Drunk US woman charged over biting dog
• It’s a good show, Charlie Brown
• Are you friggatriskaidekaphobic?