Dogs Don’t Sweat*
As the days get hotter, it is our policy to limit your dogs physical activity on days when your dog might get stressed from the heat. That usually means limiting the amount of time outside to avoid potential heat exhaustion and carrying a water bottle.
Depending on the dog and the temperature, the walker may decide it is best to just let the dog out to do its business and then bring the dog right back in the house. Dog owners are encouraged to adjust scheduled walking times to avoid the hottest part of the day. (Feel free to call, text or use the Scout APP, to make changes.)
Owners with dogs that normally get a mid-afternoon 30-minute walk to do its business and get some exercise might want to consider scheduling a morning or evening “exercise” walk and a shorter (15 minute) “bathroom break” let out at their normal time.
These policies and suggestions are to avoid heat exhaustion.
The signs of heat exhaustion include:
- Excessive panting and short of breath
- Excessive drooling
- Changes in gum color or tongue (bright or dark red)
- Elevated body temperature
- Increased pulse and heartbeat
- Excessive thirst
- Disorientation, stumbling or weakness
- Vomiting
Dog Breeds that over heat quickly
“Breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and other ‘flat-faced’ dogs have more difficulty cooling their bodies due to their short snouts,”
Hot Pavement/Asphalt
“To find out if the ground is too hot for your dog to walk on, place your hand comfortably on the pavement for 10 seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws,”
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*Dogs don’t sweat, like humans to cool down, they pant.
Additional information about dogs and heat is linked here.
