1. Offer Water Frequently
Make sure you have plenty of water to keep your dog hydrated and stay cool. Offer them cool water frequently to avoid dehydration and overheating.
2. Take Breaks
While adventuring, take intermittent breaks to let your dog catch their breath. If you’re off-leash adventuring, bring a leash in your pack so you can have your dog walk alongside you to take breaks from running and prevent overheating. Avoid walking your dog on the pavement in the summer; the temperature of the pavement can heat up quickly and burn their paw pads.
3. Find Shade or Swim
If your dog has a thick and/or dark coat, they are going to heat up quickly and be prone to dehydration and overheating. As you explore, take time to escape direct sunlight and let your dog cool off in the shade or water. If they choose to swim, make sure it is in moving water as shallow stagnant water poses a risk for blue-green algae that is toxic to dogs.
Videos from Dr. Madeline Fellin
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