Hydrate Your Hot Dog: Keep Your Best Buddy Comfortable During the Dog Days
By Bill Ignacio, DVM
Early autumn in the Valley is more than just parties in the pool and back-to-school. It’s a great time to be out and about! But, while we may be enjoying the warm days and the sunshine, remember that our canine buddies sometimes don’t adapt as easily. Dehydration is the first and most obvious topic of concern. If you’re out for a hike with your dog, he or she is going to cover much more ground than you, running back and forth, checking out this or that, burning much more energy!
Always make sure to have fresh water on hand for your pets. Even mild dehydration can cause hidden underlying medical issues that can become more serious. If you take a trip to the lake, there’s lots of water there to freshen up Fido. But take care if you take a coastal trip. Playing in the ocean can help cool down body temperature, but drinking ocean water can cause gastric upset, electrolyte imbalance, and even certain serious infections. Never encourage your dog to drink from the ocean, pond, or lagoon. If you’re out for the day, make sure to plan ahead and have water available.
It’s important to recognize the symptoms of heatstroke. This can be as subtle as an increase in respiratory noise while panting to something more extreme, like bulging eyes, distress on the dog’s part, vomiting and, in severe cases, collapsing. If you think you’re seeing some of these symptoms, move your dog to a shady area, try to find or simulate a breeze, offer small amounts of cool water, and cool the pads of his or her feet—rubbing alcohol works great for this. Of course, always phone your family veterinarian if you’re worried.
Now that you’re prepared to enjoy the tail end of our awesome warm weather, get out there and soak up the remaining sun! Just keep in mind the special concerns we have for our canine companions, and everyone will have a great day out together.