- 1). Exercise in the mornings and evenings. Temperatures are cooler at these times.
- 2). Find a shaded area to play if you can't get out with your dog in the morning or evening.
- 3). Bring plenty of water. Vet Info suggests freezing a bottle of water that will melt into a supply of cold drinking water. Bring a folding, nylon bowl for the water.
- 4). Use a cooling bandanna or vest. Cool Doggs and Outward Hound make cooling bandannas for dogs. The Swamp Cooler from Ruff Wear is a cooling vest for dogs. Accessories such as these use the concept of evaporative cooling. Soak the product in water before putting it on your dog. As the water evaporates, it lowers the dog's body temperature. Products may not prevent heat exhaustion, so remember to keep an eye on your pup when using cooling products.
- 5). Take a break. If your dog seems tired or is panting heavily, stop exercising for a bit. Work on training, pour cold water on your dog's coat or rest.
- 6). Watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Vet Info recommends watching for the following signs of heat exhaustion: heavy panting, hyperventilation, increased salivation progressing to dry gums, weakness, confusion, inattention, vomiting or diarrhea. Dogs with a temperature exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit are in danger of heat stroke, which can lead to death. Signs of heat stroke include graying of the gums, slowing and absent breathing, vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and coma.
- 1). Remove your dog from the heat if you notice signs of exhaustion. Provide water and air conditioning, either at home, in an air-conditioned car or at a shady area.
- 2). Use an ice pack to cool your dog in the armpit, groin region and neck.
- 3). Take your dog to the veterinarian as soon as possible.
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