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How to Safely Exercise Your Pet During Hot Summer Months

By: Natalie Pons, Office Manager at Pawsitivity Pet Services


Summer in Leesburg brings longer days and more opportunities for outdoor fun with our beloved pets. While we all love seeing our furry friends happy and active, the rising temperatures can pose significant health risks if we are not careful. Unlike humans, dogs don’t sweat on most of their bodies and they instead rely on panting to cool down, making them highly susceptible to overheating and heatstroke (FetchFind - Canine Health & Wellness).


At Pawsitivity Pet Services, your pet’s safety and well-being are our top priority. Here are some tips for exercising your pet when the summer heat is on. Of course, this is not medical advice and you should always consult with your veterinarian for your dog's specific needs.


Understanding the Dangers of Heat


When a pet’s body temperature rises above a safe range (normal is 101-102.5 degrees Fahrenheit), they can develop heatstroke - a life-threatening condition that can lead to organ damage or even death (FetchFind - Canine Health & Wellness). 


Recognizing and Responding to Heat Stroke


Symptoms of Heatstroke


  • Excessive panting or difficulty breathing

  • Increased heart and respiratory rate

  • Drooling

  • Mild Weakness, stupor, disorientation, or even collapse

  • Glazed eyes

  • Vomiting or bloody diarrhea

  • Dark red or purple tongue/gums

  • Seizures or unconsciousness

  • Body temperature over 105 degrees Fahrenheit


What to Do if you Suspect Heatstroke


  1. Move to somewhere cooler

  2. Run cool (NOT cold) water over the dog, cover body if possible

  3. Apply a cold pack to the dogs head

  4. Massage the dog’s legs

  5. Provide cool/cold water to allow dogs to drink as much as they want, slowly

  6. Check for signs of shock

  7. Frequently check temperature and keep cooling until below 103 degrees Fahrenheit

  8. Seek veterinary attention immediately


Even if your dog has appeared to be cooled down, heatstroke can cause delayed internal damage. Always transport them to the nearest veterinary hospital as quickly as possible, continuing cooling efforts along the way (FetchFind - Canine Health & Wellness).


Now that you know the dangers, what can you do to help prevent this from happening while still meeting your dog's needs?


Safety Measures for Summer Exercise


Timing


The coolest parts of the day are typically early morning and late evening. If your schedule allows it, keep your more lengthy walks to this time of day and leave the peak heat hours, if needed, for quick potty breaks only. Peak heat hours are generally from 10am - 4pm.


Pavement Test


Asphalt, concrete and even sand can become scorching hot, reaching temperatures 40-60 degrees Fahrenheit hotter than the air (Virginia Veterinary Centers). This can quickly burn your pet’s sensitive paws.

As a rule of thumb, place the back of your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds. If it is too hot for your hand, it is too hot for your pet’s paws! When out on a walk, stick to the grass or dirt trails whenever possible, preferably in a shaded area.


Hydration


Pets can dehydrate quickly in hot weather. Always carry plenty of fresh, cool water for your pet and offer it frequently during walks and playtime. 


Know your Pets Limits


Adjust the intensity and duration of exercise based on the temperature and your pet’s individual needs. Short, frequent walks may be better than one long walk on a hot day. Always take breaks in the shade for water and rest as well.



Consider Alternative Activities 


Indoor Playtime


On extremely hot days, try moving your exercise indoors! You can try playing with a toy inside (in a space where they will not hurt themselves or anything in your home). 


Enrichment Activities


If you don’t have the space, or if your pet is uninterested in playing inside, you could try providing enrichment activities instead. If you are interested, we have a whole blog full of enrichment activities that are a great alternative when it is unsafe for your pet to exert all of their energy outside.


Pet-Friendly Indoor Spaces


Have some errands to run at places that allow pets? Bring your pup along! Places like Home Depot and Tractor Supply are pet-friendly and a great place to walk around with your pet practicing training and behaving around others while exercising in the air conditioning.


Enjoying Summer Safely


Summer is a wonderful time to bond with your pet, but a little extra caution goes a long way! By being mindful of the heat, providing plenty of hydration, and knowing the signs of distress, you can ensure a safe, happy and active summer for your beloved companion.


And remember, when you can’t be there to ensure their safety and exercise during hot days, Pawsitivity Pet Services is here to help with professional, temperature-conscious care tailored to their needs!


Sources:


FetchFind Training - Canine Health and Wellness. (n.d.). Welcome to Canine Health & Wellness. Retrieved from https://www.fetchfindtraining.com/learn/course/canine-health-wellness/welcome-to-canine-health-wellness/

Virginia Veterinary Centers (VVC). (n.d.). Summer Safety Series with Virginia Veterinary Centers (VVC) Midlothian: Keeping Our Furry Friends Safe! Retrieved from https://www.virginiaveterinarycenters.com/blog/summer-safety-series-with-virginia-veterinary-centers-vvc-midlothian-keeping-our-furry-friends-safe


 
 
 

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