Hot Weather Care for Dogs

Louisiana summers can be pretty brutal. The heat is hard for both people and pets. Dogs are already wearing fur coats, and don’t have any easy ways to cool themselves down. Sweating just isn’t very effective for them, and panting only helps so much. You’ll want to take some precautions to keep your pup cool. A local New Orleans, LA offers some tips on that in this article.

First and foremost, make sure that your canine companion is drinking lots of water. If you have more than one dog, or a large house, you may need to set out more than one water station. Be sure to clean Fido’s  bowls regularly, so they don’t gather dust or germs.

Try to keep Fido indoors during the hottest parts of the day. Walk and play with your pet in the mornings and evenings, when it’s cooler out.

Brushing your canine buddy can also help him stay cool. If Fido has a lot of dirt and dander in his fur, his coat will get hot and itchy. Also, be sure to keep your pup’s claws clipped, and use paw balm to protect his feet.

Summertime is a great time to have a cold treat. Buy or make Fido some doggy ice cream. Or, give your pooch a bowl of sodium-free broth. You can also find recipes for homemade dog treats online. Instant tail wags!

Does your canine pal have thick fur, or just generally seem very uncomfortable in the heat? Look into getting Fido a cooling vest. There are different styles available. Some you put in the freezer, while others you would soak with water.

Another thing you can do is just take your pooch swimming. Or, if you don’t have a pet-friendly spot you like, set up a kiddie pool for your pup in the yard. You can also just let him splash around in the spray from a sprinkler or hose.

Make sure your canine companion has a comfy bed to hang out in. Point a fan at or above your pet’s bed, or get him a cooling blanket or gel pack. There’s nothing cuter than a pup relaxing in his bed!

Please contact us, your local New Orleans, LA vet clinic, for all of your dog’s veterinary care needs. We are here to help!