If you, like me, are a resident of Ontario, it is probable that you, also like me, have been seriously contemplating moving to Antartica as a result of this recent heat wave that has been shin-kicking us for about a week now.
It’s a tad excessive.
Unfortunately, here in Ontario, in addition to sweltering heat, we are also fortunate enough to be constant recipients of humidity. There really isn’t a way to put into words the sensation of feeling like you’re cooking both internally and externally at the same time, but I can assure you it isn’t pleasant.
Obviously, us humans have been feeling the effects of these scorcher days, but so are a lot of animals and our pets. I wanted to do a little research regarding how to go about keeping dogs cool in particular, and this information comes from battersea.org.uk.
“Encourage them to stay in shaded areas and away from direct sunlight.
“Put down damp towels for them to lie on.
“Fill a hot water bottle with cold water.
“Put the garden sprinkler on.
“Keep a paddling pool in the shade for them to splash about in,” the web page explains.
I encourage you to look at the entire web page, linked above, as there are some activities listed that are a great option for keeping dogs entertained without overheating. It also encourages dog owners to ensure pups have constant access to clean water, and to never leave a dog (or anything, really) in a hot car.
As for recognizing heatstroke in dogs, the web page provides the following information:
“Heatstroke develops when a dog can’t reduce their body temperature and it can be fatal. Signs of heatstroke include:
- Heavy panting
- Glazed eyes
- A rapid pulse
- Excessive salivation
- Lack of coordination
- Vomiting or diarrhoea
- Loss of consciousness”
Let’s all look after our doggos this summer and always.
ontheedgeofeverything 