All summer, I worry about dogs that stay outside during the day. Many people think that dogs will just naturally be OK in the heat and can adjust to rising temperatures. Not true.
Every year, a number of dogs suffer and die from heatstrokes.
If it is 100 degrees and your dog is begging to go along with you on a ride, do it a favor and leave it at home. If there is a reason you have to take your dog, never leave it in the car unless the air conditioning is running. Just cracking the windows is not enough, even for short periods of time.
Last year, we adopted a little Jack Russell terrier mix to a woman who was happy with her new dog. A few days later, she called us with the horrible news that the dog she adopted was dead.
She had run a short errand and left him in the car with the windows down for only a few minutes; the dog had a heatstroke and died a few hours later. The woman was devastated.
Heat builds up inside a parked car incredibly fast, even with the windows cracked. On a day when the temperature is 80 degrees, within as little as 10 minutes the temperature inside the car can build to 120 degrees, especially if parked in the sun.
Older, larger and overweight dogs are at a higher risk for heatstroke. Dogs at a higher risk also include those with heavy or dark coats and short-face dogs such as boxers, Pekingese and pugs.
If your dog has to stay outside during the day, make sure he has plenty of shade and fresh water in a container that is large enough to last all day and cannot be turned over. Water containers should be set in the ground a few inches.
A wading pool in the shade will help your dog stay cool. During the hot summer months, walk your dog only during the early-morning hours or in the late evening after the sun has gone down. Always take water on your walks.
Some signs of heat exhaustion are heavy panting, increased salivation, weakness, confusion, vomiting and diarrhea.
If you suspect your dog has had a heatstroke, try to cool it down with cool (not cold) water and air conditioning or fans, and then get it to the vet immediately. Be aware that heatstroke can happen to any dog.
If you see a dog being kept where there is no access to shade, food or water, immediately call the authorities.
If you want to make a great treat for your dogs, here is an easy recipe they will love:
Doggie Popsicles:
4 cups of plain or vanilla yogurt
1 mashed banana or one large jar of fruit baby food
2 tablespoons peanut butter
2 tablespoons honey
Blend all together and freeze in 3-ounce paper cups or ice cube trays.
Thaw slightly before serving.
Elaine Van Der Linden is the founder and director of Molly's Militia, an animal-rescue group.
If you have a question about pets or need pet advice, send an e-mail to North Augusta Today Editor Julia Sellers at julia.sellers@northaugustatoday.com. Submissions will be answered each month by area professionals.
