Dog Days Could Be Danger Days Of Summer

Lilly is kind enough to pose in an air conditioned car to help get the word out for her fellow dogs.
Staff Photo by Jeff Depew

The Dog Days of Summer are back and temperatures are reaching the red numbers, as July arrives in East Tennessee. Fun and sun is wonderful for humans but it is not so enjoyable for our canine counterparts. Dogs do not react as well in extreme temperatures as we do and it is important for pet owners to be aware of their dogs needs in the long, hot days of summer.

The National Humane Society is adamant that dog and travel just do not mix well in the heat. Cars heat up quickly and can become a deadly trap for man’s best friend. Even with the windows rolled down, the interior of a car can reach around 110 degrees in just 10 minutes on an average summer day. Some loving pet owners just do not want to deny their canine friend a ride on a sunny day and leave the air conditioning on while they are running errands, never imagining that the car could stop or the air conditioning fail to cool the inside and their loving friend is trapped in extreme heat.

Walking and exercising pets in the heat of the summer should be done with extreme caution. If you are going for a stroll, be sure that your dog is walking on grass and not the burning sidewalk or asphalt. Remember that if your feet will burn, their paws will burn, as well. Exercise early in the morning or late in the evening and always bring water for your pet. Humidity is as dangerous as extreme heat to a dog and can result in serious respiratory distress. Dog houses do not make good shelter from the heat and can, in fact, cause serious harm. Dogs need shelter that allows air to move through like a shade tree or tarp. Always have water available in a cool place that is not in direct sunlight and adding a little ice can help keep your pet comfortable and healthy in the heat.

Experts suggest purchasing a kiddie pool for your pet or turning on the sprinkler. It is important to watch pets around a larger pool, as not all dogs are good swimmers and chlorinated water is bad for dogs to consume.

Having a pet is a great joy and responsibility. Remember that no matter how much he likes to ride, leaving your dog home during the hot days of summer is in his best interest. If your feet can’t stand the heat then your dog’s paws can’t either. Water to drink and water to play, as long as it is fresh and cool, will make your pet happy during those dog days of summer. Last, but certainly not least, have a fall back plan in case the power goes off in your home so that your family, and your family pets, can keep your cool despite the temperature!