Keeping your dog cool in summer

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As the weather heats up and more people are outside enjoying the sunshine , it’s important to remember that our pets can feel the effects from the heat just as much as we do.

To help protect furry friends, Royal Canin shares these important tips to keep in mind while enjoying summer with your pet!

Sunburn

Even though animals have fur, they need sun protection, too. Particularly sensitive areas include the tips of their ears, their noses and other areas of skin exposed to sunlight. Another thing to keep in mind, Royal Canin points out, is that pets with pink skin or light-coloured coats can be more vulnerable.

According to Royal Canin, some of the dog breeds that are most prone to sunburn include Boxers, German Shorthaired Pointers and Chinese Crested Dogs. To safeguard pets, you can apply pet-friendly sunscreen (not zinc oxide-based treatments, which are toxic) about half an hour before exposure.

Panting is cooling

Dogs and cats primarily eliminate heat through respiration. Some of the breeds that tend to be more vulnerable to heat stress, and the more severe situation of heat stroke, include short-nosed dogs such as Pugs and English Bulldogs. Hydration is always important but is especially critical during warm weather.

Signs of heat stress and heat stroke that Royal Canin wants all pet parents to learn to recognize include excessive or exaggerated panting, lethargy, weakness, drooling, high fever, dark red gums, rapid heartbeat, unresponsiveness to surroundings and vomiting.

If any of these signs are noted, immediately and carefully move your pet to a cooler environment and call your veterinarian or emergency veterinary service immediately. It is important to get veterinary advice as soon as possible.

Overheating in cars

Even a few minutes in a hot vehicle can be dangerous for your pet. If you see an animal in distress in the heat, call 1-833-9ANIMAL, or your local police.

Avoid hot surfaces

Hot pavements and other surfaces can severely injure your pet’s paw pads. The rule of thumb Royal Canin follows is that if the surface is too hot for you on bare feet, it is too hot for your dog as well.

It is also recommended not to exercise your pet during the hottest parts of the day, and to find shade to rest with your furry friend.

Have a good hair day

Another tip on Royal Canin’s list for pet parents is to trim, not shave, your dog to help keep them cool. For some dogs, shaving their coat can significantly impair their ability to insulate themselves from the heat.

Royal Canin suggests brushing your dog more often in the summer, which can thin out a thick coat and get rid of hair they are shedding.

Visit www.royalcanin.com for more health advice to care for your animal friends!!