Acclimatization of dogs

 The health and well-being of a dog depends largely on environmental conditions. And if something changes in them, our four-legged friend has to adapt to new circumstances. This is called acclimatization. How does it go dog acclimatization?In general, dogs adapt well to almost any living conditions, but a lot depends on the breed. For example, for dogs with a short muzzle (and therefore short airways), heat can be fraught with heat stroke (up to death). And a short-haired pet (for example, a Doberman or Weimar Hound) is unlikely to feel comfortable in the Arctic. Therefore, before you take your dog to another climate zone, be sure to think: will the pet be able to adapt to new weather conditions?

As a rule, with age, the ability to acclimatize in a dog decreases, so it will be easier for a young pet to endure the move. But in any case, you should choose the most favorable period for the climate zone you like.

Our pets are greatly affected by the composition of the air they breathe. For example, if the oxygen content drops to 15%, it will cause oxygen starvation, and a level of 7% can be fatal. If the carbon dioxide content rises to 0,09% or more, the dog will also feel unwell.

High humidity can cause fatigue, lethargy, or shortness of breath. High temperatures carry the risk of overheating and heat stroke, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause sunstroke.

You can help the effective acclimatization of the dog. If, for example, you went with your dog to hot countries, be sure to have a bottle of clean drinking water and a camping drinker with you (they can be found on sale), do not leave your dog alone in a locked car in the heat even for a short time, and if you got to the beach, grab something that can provide shade for the pet (for example, a beach umbrella). Don’t let your dog run a lot in the heat and keep an eye on how he’s feeling. If, despite all precautions, the dog is injured, you need to know how to give him first aid.

Many also wonder if it is worth shaving a dog in the heat. Experts say it’s not worth it. And there are reasons for that.

 All this must be taken into account in order not to expose the pet to unjustified risk.

You can learn more about how to take your pet abroad here: What do you need to take your dog abroad?

Rules for transporting animals when traveling abroad

On the beach with a dog