How to protect your animal – a guest article by Dr. Lena Sötje
It can be dangerous for dogs when temperatures rise rapidly, whether in a holiday destination or here at home. As with people, this is especially true for seniors.
Hamburg. “You can't be serious!”, the dog's eyes seem to say when we stand in front of our four-legged friend on a hot day with the leash on. Walks are actually not a good idea in hot weather and should only take place in the evenings and early mornings. In between, it is enough if the dog can relieve itself for a short time. And please avoid hot asphalt if possible. If in doubt, place the back of your hand on the street or sidewalk for a few seconds to test whether the surface is too hot.
“Heat” is a relative term: It may be pleasant for us in the sun, but it is already too hot for the animal. Older dogs in particular usually signal this clearly. Sufficient fresh water and shady places are particularly important on hot days. When you go on excursions, therefore, take enough liquid for both humans and animals and look for drinking opportunities at rest stops or places where you can take a break.
The rule of thumb for dogs at medium temperatures is: 40 to 50 milliliters of water per day per kilogram of body weight, so about half a liter for a ten-kilogram terrier. In very hot weather, dogs need at least twice as much for thermoregulation. Four-legged friends also like cooling. Use damp towels or cooling mats, even when you're out and about. With cooling mats with gel filling, make sure that your four-legged friend cannot chew the mat – the gel is poisonous.
Speaking of poison: When it is very hot, algae form in stagnant and slow-flowing waters, which can be poisonous for dogs. On the coasts and river beaches on the Iberian Peninsula, bathing beaches are also often closed because of algae. Make sure that your dog only cools off in safe waters.
The following applies to car journeys on hot days: Please only in the early morning and evening hours. And never leave the dog in a parked car – not even for a short time.
Signs of overheating
Warning signs of overheating are excessive panting, weakness or staggering. The dog appears very tired and weak. If you notice these signs, take the animal to a cool place immediately and offer it water. Try to slowly lower the body temperature with wet, but not ice-cold towels.
If the dog is uncoordinated or staggers, the nervous system may already be affected. In this case, the animal needs immediate medical attention. Vomiting or diarrhea can also indicate severe overheating. Check the gums: are they dark red or pale? In a healthy dog, they are pink. It is particularly serious if the dog becomes unconscious or has convulsions.
Heat is a serious danger for dogs and can lead to life-threatening situations. However, with a few simple measures you can ensure that your four-legged friend is safe and well even on hot days. Make sure that your dog has enough water and shade and avoid physical exertion in the midday heat. If you notice signs of overheating, do not hesitate to seek veterinary help immediately.
About Dr. Lena Sötje
Dr. Lena Sötje is the head veterinarian at the Medivet practices in Hamburg-Stellingen and Pinneberg. She studied veterinary medicine at the Hannover Veterinary School Foundation and received her doctorate from the Free University of Berlin. She is an all-rounder in small animal medicine and is also enthusiastic about avian and companion animal medicine. In her private life, Dr. Sötje keeps a cat as well as chickens. She has a big heart for animals and a passion for natural sciences.