On hot days, we seek cooler places. We go inside, and turn on air conditioners and fans. Or we go to the mall, beach, park, etc. We even look forward to going to work, just for the A/C… and we leave our fur kids behind, sometimes outside in the heat.
Where do they stay during the day? In Part 2 of this series, I mentioned that our pets, especially those flat-faced ones, are affected by heat more than we are. So if it’s too hot outside for you, it’s too hot for pets too. Bring them in and let them enjoy the fans or A/C too. I know not everyone has or uses A/C, but even without it or fans, it’s usually cooler inside the house. When my house gets hot, my fur kids have their cool spots. I often find them sprawled out on the kitchen and bathroom floors, in the closets, or lounging in front of a fan. I’ve even found a cat sleeping in the bathtub on occasion.
If your pets must remain outside; Make sure they have a cool, shady place to rest throughout the day; with plenty of fresh air and cool water… that’s not only good for the animal, IT’S THE LAW!
Speaking of laws, in California and some other states, it’s illegal to chain or tether a dog to an object like a tree, doghouse, post etc., for more than three hours per day. Besides being illegal, it’s dangerous, inhumane, and can lead to serious behavioral problems in the tied out dog. Among other things, a tethered dog is vulnerable to attacks from other dogs or animals, harassment from children, and strangulation. Unless you’re able to supervise the dog, do not tie him out!
A doghouse can be a good option for a cool place, as long as it’s large enough, and it’s insulated and well ventilated. If it gets hot and stuffy inside the doghouse, it defeats the purpose. The same thing goes for a garage; because they’re usually not well insulated and there’s no moving air, it can get stifling inside a closed garage.
We usually sit or lie on furniture, wear shoes, and walk erect; so we forget how much heat the ground can absorb, retain, and then radiate, especially surfaces like asphalt and cement. Our pet’s entire, fur covered, bodies are always close to the ground! They feel the heat to their core… literally. Remember, shade moves with the sun, but the ground doesn’t cool as quickly. If your dog stays in an enclosed area, like a run, there should be enough cover so a good-sized area has continuous shade throughout the day. Also, an elevated bed allows air to circulate under the pet, and gets him off of the hot ground.
Speaking of the ground, many dogs will dig holes big enough to lie in… They know that a few inches under the surface, the ground is much cooler. If your dog does this, don’t get mad at him! Instead, think of some things you can do to make his “dog days” more comfortable.
Visiting ‘cooler places.’ During the summer, we like to go to the beach, park, lake, and other outdoor places. While most cats would rather stay home, many dogs would love to go with you. It’s great fun for them to get outdoors with us, and visiting new places gives your dog the chance to enjoy new sights and smells. A couple hours spent at a beach or park can be a great way to relax with your best friend, and maybe beat the heat too. Here are some things to think about before you and your dog take off for a little get away…
Know Your Dog Will Be Welcome: There are places where dogs aren’t allowed, even on leash. Before you go: Do some research and make sure dogs are welcome. Learn and follow the rules that apply to dogs, including poop pick up! Doing so is one way to insure dogs will continue to be welcomed there.
Water: Always bring plenty of water, and a bowl, for your dog.
Car Rides: DO NOT LEAVE YOUR DOG IN THE CAR! Cars are like mini glasshouses, and they heat up very fast, even with the windows cracked. When it’s 85° outside, your car can heat up to 102° in just ten minutes… Be prepared before you leave home with your dog, so you don’t have to stop by the store along the way. “I’m just going to run in for a minute,” can turn into several when the store is busy.
Shade: Even at the beach, where the breeze is usually cool, it still gets hot and the sand gets really hot. Like many dogs, Jesse James loves the beach, but he doesn’t like the water and won’t take advantage of it to cool off. When we’re having a beach day, if I don’t bring one, I always find Jesse hanging out under other peoples’ umbrellas. No matter where you’re relaxing outdoor destination is, make sure your dog will have a shady place to hang out with you. If there aren’t trees or other natural sources of shade, bring your own. Soft-sided portable crates, and pet tents are lightweight, easy to set up, and a safe place for your dog to get out of the sun.
First Aid Kit: It’s a good idea to always have a First Aid Kit in your car! It’s not just for your dog, it’s for you and your family too. Taking CPR and First Aid classes for pets and people is also a great idea.
Too Much of a Good Thing: Sometimes dogs get so involved in exploring and playing they forget to rest. Frequently encourage your dog to stop, drink water, maybe have a snack, relax and cool down.
reminds me of how EVERYBODY leaves their dogs in the car in eureka. It never got above 65 the whole time we were there but I still shuddered each time.
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