Summer in South Africa can be brutal and our four-legged friends feel it too. Dogs don’t sweat like humans do though, they regulate temperature through panting and their paw pads, making them vulnerable to overheating.
Start with the basics: always provide fresh, cool water in multiple locations around your home and garden. Add ice cubes to their bowl on particularly hot days. Never leave your dog in a parked car, even with the windows cracked – temperatures inside can reach lethal levels within minutes.
Adjust your walking schedule to early mornings, or late evenings when the pavement is cooler. The 7-second rule applies: if you can’t hold the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds, it’s too hot for their paws.
Create cool spots in your home. Tile floors are naturally cooler, or invest in a cooling mat – some dogs even enjoy a shallow paddling pool in the garden. Freeze treats like dog-safe ice blocks made with chicken broth, or pureed fruit.
Watch for signs of heatstroke: excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, or collapse. If you suspect heatstroke, move your dog to shade immediately, offer water and cool them gradually with wet towels, then contact your vet urgently.
Certain breeds with short snouts like Bulldogs, Pugs and Boxers are especially heat-sensitive. Senior dogs and puppies also need extra vigilance. Consider trimming long-haired breeds, but never shave double-coated dogs as their coat provides insulation from both cold and heat.
Need to ask the pets24 AI how to keep your pets cool this Summer?
Ask here: https://pets24.co.za/ai-vet-advisor/
If it’s an emergency though we always recommend you consult your local vet first.
