Little Furry Paws and Hot Weather Walks…
Before we introduce the next member of our inspirational gallery, I wanted to address a rather big concern…Yesterday as I was driving through the city, I was in a bit of disbelief watching two dog owners walking their dogs at 1.30pm on a 33+ degree day. Quite literally the hottest part of the day and there were two fluffy babies being walked. On pavement. Not a blade of grass in sight.
As dog owners, we love spending quality time with our furry companions and of course, walking them is something they love as well - but not if their little paws are being burned on the scorching hot pavements. We are wearing shoes for a good reason, they do not, and they can’t voice their discomfort. We should be aware and tuned in to understand that, and when it’s so hot, the last thing we should be doing is gratifying our own needs at the peril of theirs. And seriously, can it not wait until later in the day, or go earlier before the sun has had a chance to warm everything and everyone up…?
As the temperature rises, so do the risks associated with walking dogs in hot weather. Some breeds are also more susceptible to the impact of heat. Understanding these dangers and taking the right precautions can mean the difference between a fun outing and a potentially harmful experience for your pet.
The Risks of Hot Weather Walks
Paw Pad Burns: Asphalt, concrete, and sand can become dangerously hot under the sun. On a 30°C (86°F) day, asphalt can reach temperatures upwards of 55°C (131°F), which is hot enough to cause burns in seconds. Dogs’ paw pads, while tough, are not immune to these extreme temperatures.
Heatstroke: Dogs can’t sweat like humans do. They rely on panting to regulate their body temperature, but this isn’t always enough in sweltering weather. Even if you’re walking your dog in the shade, or even if they’re outside in hot weather, heatstroke can set in quickly, causing symptoms such as excessive panting, drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, and in severe cases, collapse or death. Again, certain breeds can be more susceptible to this. It’s one reason some types can only fly during certain months of the year for example, when being transported from Europe to Australia, given the stopover in the Middle East, Boston Terriers like our Stan was only allowed to fly between October and March. Summer in the Middle East is simply far too hot.
Dehydration: Dehydration is a serious risk when walking in hot weather. Without access to water, dogs can lose vital fluids, leading to a range of health issues, including kidney damage.
Signs Your Dog Is Overheated
Knowing the warning signs of overheating is crucial. Look out for:
Excessive panting or difficulty breathing
Bright red gums or tongue
Lethargy or disorientation
Vomiting or diarrhoea
Collapsing or convulsions
If your dog shows any of these signs, move them to a cool area immediately, offer water, and contact your vet.
Tips for Safe Walks in Hot Weather
Choose Cooler Times: Walk your dog early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are lower, and surfaces have had time to cool.
Test the Ground: Place the back of your hand on the pavement for seven seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Hydration Is Key: Bring plenty of fresh water and a collapsible bowl for your dog to drink from during the walk.
Take It Slow: Avoid strenuous exercise on hot days. Opt for shorter walks and shaded paths to keep your dog comfortable.
Protect Their Paws: Invest in dog booties or paw wax to protect their pads from hot surfaces.
Stay Indoors if Needed: On extremely hot days, consider skipping the walk altogether. Instead, engage your dog with indoor activities like puzzle toys or light training exercises. Believe me, they’ll be happier for it!
Alternatives to Outdoor Walks
If walking outdoors isn’t safe, here are some ways to keep your dog active and entertained indoors:
Interactive Toys: Use food-dispensing toys or puzzles to stimulate their minds.
Indoor Fetch: Play a gentle game of fetch in a safe, air-conditioned space.
Training Sessions: Teach your dog a new trick or reinforce existing ones to keep them mentally engaged.
Kids Paddling Pool: Nothing makes our German Shepherd happier than claiming ownership of our son’s paddling pool. If you have a nice shady spot in your yard, you could setup one up for the dogs to have a splash around. Or get the hose out. It’s hard to say what she loves more…biting the water out of a long, snake looking thing, or digging it out of the weird sandpit that has no sand…
Final Thoughts
As much as we want to maintain our routines and keep our dogs active, their safety and well-being must always come first. By understanding the risks and taking appropriate precautions, you can ensure your furry friend stays happy and healthy, even during the hottest months of the year.
Remember: If it feels too hot for you, it’s definitely too hot for them. A little care and attention go a long way in protecting your loyal companion from the perils of hot weather walks.
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