How temperature changes in summer affect dogs

cambio temperatura en verano de los perros

Summer Temperature Changes and Their Effects on Dogs: A Call for Caution.

Summer is a time of year that many enjoy for its long, sunny, warm days. However, the high temperatures that accompany this season can pose a significant danger to our four-legged friends.

Dogs, unlike humans, have a different and more limited body temperature regulation system, making them more vulnerable to heat stroke and other heat-related problems. In this article, we will explore how summer temperature changes affect dogs and the crucial importance of never leaving them in a parked car.

How summer temperature changes affect dogs

Heatstroke in dogs: One of the most serious consequences of exposure to high temperatures is heatstroke, a condition that can be fatal if not treated immediately. Symptoms include excessive panting, salivation, rapid breathing, rapid pulse, weakness, vomiting, and in severe cases, seizures, collapse, and loss of consciousness. If a dog shows signs of heatstroke, it is essential to cool it immediately (not using cold water, but lukewarm water), offer it water, and seek urgent veterinary attention.
Dehydration: Another risk associated with heat is dehydration. In the summer, dogs lose more fluids through panting, and if not properly replenished, they can become dehydrated. This can lead to serious health problems, such as kidney or circulatory issues. Ensuring a dog has constant access to fresh water and shade is essential to preventing dehydration.
Paw Burns: Surfaces like asphalt or sand can reach extremely high temperatures under the summer sun, which can cause burns on the pads of dogs’ paws. A good trick to assess whether the ground is too hot is to place the palm of your hand on the surface for a few seconds; if it’s too hot for your hand, it will be too hot for your dog’s paws, too.
Respiratory Problems: Brachycephalic dog breeds, such as bulldogs, pugs, and boxers, are especially susceptible to respiratory problems in hot weather because of their narrower airways. These breeds should be monitored closely during hot days, and exercise should be limited to avoid overexertion that can exacerbate respiratory problems.

Never leave your dog in the car

The greenhouse effect inside the car: Cars act like greenhouses, trapping the sun’s heat and rapidly increasing the interior temperature. A dog trapped in a hot car can suffer heat stroke within minutes, which can lead to organ damage, coma or even death.
To break the window or not: In many places, if you see a dog in distress inside a hot car, you may be legally allowed to break a window to rescue the animal. However, it’s important to know your local laws and proceed with caution. Ideally, you should try to locate the car’s owner first, and if that’s not possible, call the police or an animal welfare organization before taking drastic measures.
Safe alternatives: If you need to run an errand, it’s best to leave your dog at home where he’s safe and cool. If you have no choice but to take him with you, make sure someone can stay with him outside the car in a shady spot with water. If you’re traveling, plan stops in areas where your dog can get out of the car and walk in cool places.

Protect your dog from extreme heat this summer

Summer brings with it numerous challenges to dog well-being, from the threat of heat stroke to the life-threatening danger of leaving them in a hot car.

As responsible dog owners, it is crucial that we take steps to protect our dogs from extreme heat, ensuring they have access to fresh water, shade and cool places. And above all, we should never underestimate the danger of leaving them in a car, even for a few minutes.

Care and caution during the summer can make the difference between life and death for our beloved canine companions.