How Can I Protect My Dog in a Heat Wave?

How Can I Protect My Dog in a Heat Wave?

It's blistering hot outside? Here is what you can do to keep your four-pawed friend cool & safe.

Between the end of June and the end of August, heat waves are a common phenomenon on Mallorca, though in recent years they seem to hit more often, and come with ever fiercer temperatures. While we humans can do many things to protect ourselves from the heat, our pets suffer silently – and often more than we think. Especially older animals or those with chronic diseases need our help to cope with the extreme temperatures.

This is what you can do: #

• Dogs bodies don't cool off by sweating but through drinking and panting. To keep your four-pawed friend hydrated, make sure it has access to a full bowl of water in a shady place at all times. Exchange the water regularly. And if your dog refuses to drink from its bowl? Try to let it drink from the tap, or a shower or garden hose. Some prefer running water.
• Do not leave your dog outside in the sun. It will instinctively want to withdraw to a cool place in the house to rest and nap – you just have to open the door. Old dogs and puppies might not have that instinct. To them, you need to show the way.
• Walk your dog in the cool of the morning or after sundown at night. If you have to be out and about in the heat of the day, take a moment to lay the back of your hand on the asphalt. If you can’t keep it there for at least five seconds, it’s too hot to walk you dog on it. Rather walk on the side strip where the road isn't paved.
• Take your dog for a swim in the sea. For a list of dog-friendly beaches on Mallorca click here. If that's not an option for you, set up a baby pool, give it a doggy shower or a sponge bath with cool water.
• Never ever leave your dog in a parked car – not even with the windows down or the sunroof open. The intense heat has a dog suffering within minutes.
• Just in case you might be tempted: It's a bad idea to buy your companion an ice cream. Sweeties are strictly not for dogs!

Warning Signals #

A dark-red tongue, panting with a stretched neck, glazed-over eyes and drowsiness are symptoms of overheating. As a first-aid measure, cool the animal with wet cloths. If the symptoms persist, take it to the vet!

Affordable Mallorca Tip: There are only a few dog races who's fur should be trimmed in the summer, poodles and schnauzers among them. Most other dogs need their fur as an insulation against the heat and for sun protection.

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