Preventing Heat Stroke in Your Dog
Originally written July 23, 2015
Today's heat advisory has brought back to the forefront our hot weather policies and preventing heat stroke in the dogs we walk.
Here are some of our tips to help keep your dog safe when it's very hot and humid out:
- When the schedule allows, set the dog walk up for earlier in the day, when it's cooler
- Provide a portable water carrier so your dog-walker can offer water to your dog throughout the walk
- It is advisable that each dog have their own water bottle or bowl to prevent the spread of disease or illness
- Dog walkers will take breaks in the shade and monitor the dog for signs that he needs a break. Some early signs are:
- Panting more heavily
- Trying to search for shade and/or water, pulling towards trees or cooler areas
- Walking more slowly
- Thicker, more sticky saliva
- There are signs of more severe hyperthermia (heat stroke), however we advise being proactive and preventing the dog from getting to that point. An article on the more serious signs and what to do in a heat stroke emergency is available on the Pet Education blog
With regards to our professional dog-walking service, our policy is that when the temperature reaches 35 degrees Celsius or higher with the humidity index, we reduce walks to 20 minutes or less, or 20-minute intervals for hour-long walks.
We will remain with your dog for the full scheduled visit, but will bring the dog back home to cool off, drink water, and can play games inside or snuggle and spend time with your dog in ways that they enjoy. If the walk is a full hour, we can go back out again for a final opportunity for a potty break and a little more walking before we leave.
If your dog is particularly sensitive to the heat, please let us know so that we can be especially vigilant and plan for more breaks in the shade or a shorter walk if needed.
We can also do water play in your back yard if you have a pool or other water toys for your dog.
Clients can also provide stuffed frozen Kongs or other cool treats for your dog to snack on when you are away. If you leave a Kong or frozen treat in your freezer we are more than happy to offer it at the end of our walk. For suggestions on preparing frozen Kongs, see our Kong Stuffing Blog Post.
If it's just too hot to take your dog out for longer than a potty break, check out our Boredom Busters blog for ideas to keep your dog entertained in the house.
All of our dog-walkers and pet-sitters are trained in Emergency Pet First Aid. We never transport your dogs in our vehicles without your express written consent, and dogs are never left unattended in vehicles. 
Manitoba Parks also has a Paws in Parks webpage with a list of dog-friendly activities in the province, including a list of dog-friendly swimming areas:
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Enjoy the summer and stay safe! - Don't forget water for the humans too :)
More more informative blog posts, visit our main page at PawsitivePooch.BlogSpot.com
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