The triple digits have returned to the Valley and that means we must acclimatize ourselves and our pets to the hot weather.  Whether you are walking, jogging, hiking or camping (even in the high country), you need to be constantly on the lookout for heat-related problems that could arise.

Your dog probably gets excited when he heads outdoors with you.  He may not take to time to drink up or otherwise acclimate himself to the warmer weather.  He just wants to “go!”

Remember, your dog enjoys your company and wants to please you.  He will try to keep up with you even if he is overheated and in serious trouble.  So keep in mind these tips to avoid heat stress for your canine companion.

1. Start out slow.  Just like humans, dogs need to improve their conditioning and it won’t happen overnight.  Start with short walks in the cool of the morning or evening after sunset and gradually work into an exercise program.  Don’t expect your dog to keep up with you on your bike or rollerblades if he isn’t yet in great physical condition.
2. Avoid the heat of the day.  With the triple digits already upon us, this means from mid-morning through suppertime.
3. Pre-hydrate. Encourage your dog to drink well before you go outside.
4. Take water for your dog. Dogs can be taught to drink from water bottle squirt caps or from camelback hoses.  Or take along a collapsible bowl.  Water needs will vary depending on temperature and activity level but you can plan on providing at least a half liter per 10 pounds of body weight per day.  Thus, a 50-pound dog needs a minimum of 2.5 liters a day, much more if the weather is hot.  Stop for a drink every 15 to 30 minutes and let the dog drink as much as he needs.
5. Keep your dog on-leash or close to you. If your dog is off-leash, he may cover ten times as much ground or more than you!  This makes the likelihood of heat exhaustion that much greater.
6. Rest frequently. Stop in the shade for a few minutes.  Wet the dog’s feet and lower legs as this is where the blood vessels are closest to the surface for maximum cooling effect.
7. STOP if your dog seems overheated. You know your dog and can differentiate normal panting from excessive panting.  If he is slowing down or reluctant to go on, you must STOP in a shady area.  Wet down his feet and legs first, or the whole dog if enough water is available, offer water to drink, and wait as long as needed for him to regain his normal body temperature.  This might take hours!  Or pick him up and carry him if he needs emergency care.
8. Check the footpads. Foot pads are tough structures but they can still get blisters and cuts.  Torn footpads are very painful.  Don’t let your dog walk on hot pavement.  If the ground is too hot for you to place your hand on it, then it’s too hot for your dog to walk on it!

We know how to use common sense in the summer heat for ourselves and our families in order to avoid heat exhaustion.  Make good decisions for your dog, too.  Stay safe and have a great summer!