With summer heat reaching dangerous highs around the world, it’s important to take precautions. This is especially true for our dogs, who don’t handle heat the same way humans do and can quickly get overwhelmed by high temps, hot pavement, or a parked car. Thankfully, dog training expert Karen Piwinski has shared some simple, science-backed tips to help keep your pup safe all summer long.
When Not to Walk Your Dog:
- Think about skipping the outdoor walks altogether when it’s 90-degrees or above.
- Use the “150 rule.” if temperature + humidity add up to more than 150, it’s too risky.
- Between 81–85-degrees, walks should be under 20 minutes, and only if absolutely necessary.
- Even indoor spaces can be unsafe. Dogs shouldn’t be left in temps above 85°F for more than four hours.
- The safest temperatures for walks? 45–66-degrees, where you can go as long as you like.
And if you think your dog might be overheating, here are the signs:
- Heavy panting, drooling, or discolored gums (bright red, blue, or bruised)
- Lethargy, confusion, vomiting, or even seizures
- Body temp over 104-degrees — this is an emergency, and you should call a vet immediately
To stay safe, walk early in the morning, stick to shaded or grassy areas, bring water, and do the seven-second pavement test (if it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws). And never leave your dog in a parked car, not even for a quick errand.
The bottom line is, your dog doesn’t care if it’s bikini season, they just want to stay cool and comfy. Keep things chill, and you’ll both have a much happier summer.
Source: People⠀