How Hot is Too Hot for Your Dog?

Hello, and welcome to the Dog Days of Summer! Williston Animal Group is located in Williston, FL and trust me it is hot here in July, August, and even September.

Do you know where the phrase, Dog Days of Summer, came from? Click here to read all about it. You may be surprised.

Williston Animal Group likes to spend some time bringing awareness to topics that may concern dog owners. Obviously, not letting your dog get too hot is probably not something you want to do.

A dog can’t tell you when they’re too hot. Or, can they? There are some very subtle signs that you need to watch out for to make sure your pooch is safe from Heat Stroke. Dogs can get Heat Stroke just as humans can, and it is a very dangerous issue for both. Heat Stroke can cause internal organs to fail in both dogs and humans. If a dog’s internal temperature gets to 105 degrees F, that is Heat Stroke. If you wanted to check your dog’s temperature you would need a rectal thermometer. Even in temperatures of 80 degrees, especially with humidity, can be too hot for your dog to exercise. If you are uncomfortable, so are they.

There are 3 very good videos below. One will explain Heat Stroke, the second protect your dog’s paws, and the last one is just super cute beagles showing you how to cool off your dog. WAG did not make any of these videos, nor have we tried any of the products mentioned. There is a lot of good information and I urge you to watch them. For example, did you know dogs with smooshed noses, or shorter snouts, over heat quicker than other dogs. Also, dogs do not sweat through their skin, so shaving their hair is not all that helpful. I also did not know that dogs lose heat through their feet, but it does make sense. Do the hand test when seeing if the ground is too hot for your dog. Even grass can get too hot in certain parts of the day. Place your hand on the ground and if you can keep your hand there for 10 seconds without discomfort, then it is probably safe for your dog to walk on.

Enjoy!

If you would like to meet any of our adoptable dogs, or would like to ask about volunteering for WAG, please call 352-525-9888 or you can email us at info@willistonanimalgroup.com We would love to have you volunteer!

The information shared on this blog is for educational awareness purposes only. If you have an emergency with your dog please always call your Vet. Also, your Vet is a great resource for information on keeping your dog safe and healthy.

Happy Tails!