Provide Plenty of Water: Ensure your dog always has access to fresh, cool water. Refill their bowl frequently and consider adding ice cubes to keep it cool.
Use Cooling Mats: Invest in a cooling mat for your dog to lie on. These mats stay cool without needing refrigeration and help lower your dog’s body temperature.
Limit Exercise: Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day. Take walks early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler.
Shade and Shelter: Ensure your dog has access to shaded areas. If they’re outside, provide a shaded spot where they can escape the sun.
Cool Baths: Give your dog a cool bath or hose them down with water. This helps to quickly reduce their body temperature.
Wet Towels: Drape a wet towel over your dog or let them lie on one. The evaporating water will help cool them down.
Fans and Ventilation: Use fans to increase air circulation in the house. You can also place a bowl of ice in front of the fan to blow cooler air.
Avoid Hot Surfaces: Pavements and sand can get extremely hot. Walk your dog on grass or shaded paths to protect their paws from burns.
Hydrating Treats: Offer frozen treats like ice cubes made from low-sodium broth or special doggy ice lollies to keep them hydrated and cool.
Monitor for Heatstroke: Keep an eye out for signs of overheating, such as excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy. If you notice any of these, cool your dog down immediately and contact a vet.
By following these tips, you can help ensure your working dog stays cool and comfortable during a heatwave.
