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The Signs of Animal Cool-Ty

The Signs of Animal Cool-Ty

DENVER LOVES ANIMALS, AND THERE’S a good chance you’ll see four-legged doggies (and two-legged pups, nudge nudge) all summer long. No matter if you plan on taking your pets around the city with you or if you decide to leave them at home, learn how to keep your furry family members nice and cool in the unforgiving summer heat.

O’Brian Gunn

RECOGNIZE THE SIGNS

You probably already know the reason dogs pant is because they’re trying to cool down, but you might not be aware that the two leading reasons Fido starts panting are that he’s suffering from hyperthermia and/or his upper airway system is compromised. Hyperthermia is common in hot environments where dogs are unable to properly cool themselves, which causes them to pant. Certain animals can also have a paralyzed larynx or another acquired condition that renders them unable to regulate their body temperature.

The main problem with hyperthermia and some acquired conditions is they can actually cause dogs to become hotter as they pant. Some of the signs of overheating in pets are labored breathing, high respiratory rate, drooling, and mild weakness. Keep a close eye on your dog while you’re outside and visit the vet before heading to Pride to ensure your pooch doesn’t have a compromised upper airway system.

BEAT THE HEAT TOGETHER

You and your pet can benefit from early morning or evening exercise when the temperatures aren’t as high. You may find that your canine companion is reluctant to go outside when it’s hotter and would rather stretch out underneath an AC vent. Another reason to enjoy outside time with your pets early in the morning or later in the evening is that hot surfaces won’t be as hard on the pads of their paws.

WATER, WATER, WATER

While panting is sometimes a good way for your dog to cool off, the downside is panting can easily lead to dehydration. Share some of your water with your pets so you can replenish your fluids together. Besides water, you can also offer your dog a water alternative to help replenish electrolytes.

BE MINDFUL OF YOUR DOG’S BREED

Certain dog breeds, like Pekingese, Boston terriers, and pugs, aren’t able to pant as well as other breeds, which means it’s harder for them to stay cool. Be sure to keep an especially close eye on your four-legged friends for signs of heat stroke and make sure they have plenty of water, shade, and rest if you bring them out with you. The same rules apply to overweight and older pets as well as those with lung or heart problems. As a matter of fact, you might want to keep older or overweight breeds at a doggie daycare or at home.

LET IT GROW, LET IT GROW, LET IT GROW

Before you decide to take your pet with you to the salon for a grooming, you might be better off waiting until after the hotter months of the year. Humans stay cooler with fewer layers of clothes on, but dogs and cats often fare better in the heat and have less chance of becoming sunburned if they have a luxurious coat. Trimming long hair is okay, just make sure you don’t overdo it.

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Keep your pup cool and comfortable as you show your pet pride this year. If you’re visiting us from out of town, be sure to check out Denver’s options for pet boarding, like Bark & Play.

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