Walking your dog in scorching weather is generally not advisable!
Here are some guidelines to consider:
Paw pad burns: Asphalt and pavement can get scorching hot under the sun, burning your dog’s paws.
Heatstroke risk: Dogs, unlike humans, don’t sweat much and rely on panting to cool down. This natural cooling mechanism becomes less effective in hot weather, significantly increasing the risk of a potentially fatal heatstroke. Heat stroke is a severe health concern for your furry friend.
Risk of heatstroke: This is a severe condition that can be fatal.
Understanding the risks of walking your dog in hot weather is important; it’s your responsibility as a caring dog owner. So, how hot is too hot?
Temperature: Avoid walks when the temperature is above 85°F (29°C). Some dogs need extra caution. This information should make dog owners feel more informed and prepared; some dogs are more at risk at even lower temperatures.
Humidity: High humidity is a significant challenge for our furry friends, as it hampers their ability to pant effectively. A temperature of 80°F (27°C) with 80% humidity poses a higher risk than 85°F (29°C) with low humidity. You can calculate a heat index that will guide your decisions by considering temperature and humidity.
Dog breed: Short-faced breeds like pugs and bulldogs, thick-furred breeds like huskies, and overweight dogs are more susceptible to heatstroke. For instance, pugs and bulldogs have shorter nasal passages, making it harder to cool down through panting.
If you must walk your dog during the day, let’s talk about some safety tips that can make a real difference:
Carry a portable water dish with plenty of water for easy access to water, pause walks, and let your dog drink frequently.
Indoor playtime: Don’t worry; you can still exercise and entertain your dog indoors. Play fetch or engage in other activities that your dog enjoys.
Water play: Let your dog splash in a kiddie pool or lick ice cubes.
Walk in the early mornings or evenings: When the temperatures are cooler.
Go for shorter walks with less intensity than usual.
Stick to shady areas and walk on grass or dirt: Parks with trees or grassy fields are good options instead of hot pavement.
Check the pavement temperature: Asphalt gets scorching hot. If you can’t comfortably hold your hand on it for 5 seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Consider dog booties.
Another critical tip is always look for shaded areas and let your dog outside often. The shade will relieve the heat and help keep your dog cool. Remember, dogs can’t sweat like humans, so they rely on us to help them stay cool in hot weather.
IMPORTANT
You should never leave your dog unattended in a hot car, just as you would never leave a baby in the car.
Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. If you need more clarification about the conditions, skip the walk or find an alternative way to exercise your dog indoors.
If you notice signs of heatstroke (excessive panting, lethargy, vomiting), immediately take your dog to a shady area, offer cool water, and seek veterinary attention.
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