Well, here we are in the Dog Days of summer (generally accepted to be the 40 days from July 3 to August 11). And while the meaning behind the term’s origin – which involves constellations and dates back to ancient Greece – has been lost over time, we all know what it means. It’s hot. We’re hot. And our furry best friends are hot too. Here are a few ways we can help them stay cool during this sweltering season.
Keep Them Hydrated
Water makes up roughly 60 percent of a dog’s body weight. Generally speaking, the average dog needs to drink between 1/2 to 1 ounce of fresh water per pound of body weight every day. Therefore, a 50-pound dog would need anywhere from 25 to 50 ounces of water to stay properly hydrated. Make sure to account for what ends up on the floor if your dog’s a sloppy drinker. And bring a portable bowl if you’re going on an extended outing.
Give Them a Break
Since dogs don’t have a direct way of communicating to us that they need a break, it’s important to take them frequently to prevent exhaustion. For leisurely walking or playing, every 15-20 minutes should be adequate. Break more often if your dog is running, fetching, or hiking. On your break, offer your dog water or a snack, find them some shade, and just let them rest a bit.
Take Them Swimming
If you take your dog to a park, opt for one with a body of water like a pond or creek. You might find a park in your area with a doggie pool, and of course you can always just set up a kiddie pool in your backyard. Most dogs love the water, and even those that typically don’t often change their minds when the temp is off the charts. If your dog lacks experience and the water is deep, consider a doggie life jacket for safety. And remember that they’ll need breaks from swimming as well.
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Exercise Early
Because mid-day is generally the hottest, it’s best to exercise your dog in the early morning or the evening. Keeping them inside when the heat is most brutal is an easy way to avoid overheating and dehydration.
As we ride out the hottest days of summer, don’t forget to take extra care to keep your dog comfortable, healthy, and safe. It’s what best friends are for!
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