How to help a dog in a fever

The unusual behavior of dogs in the heat sometimes worries owners. The pet can often breathe, be inactive, eat little. But all this helps him to endure the heat more easily: the dog understands perfectly well what needs to be done so as not to overheat. In addition, other methods can help the pet.

Natural cooling

Every living organism has natural methods of protection against overheating, and dogs are no exception. Their main ways are:

• heat removal through the sweat glands on the paws;
• rapid breathing with open mouth and protruding tongue;
• plentiful drink.

If the dog lives outside the city, he can resort to another original method – to dig a hole for himself, raising the top hot layer of soil and being next to the life-giving coolness.

Mode change

In the heat, it is better to shift the walking schedule as close as possible to early morning and late evening – during these hours the air temperature is minimal. In addition, it is necessary to reduce physical activity as much as possible or completely eliminate them. It is better to avoid walking on hot asphalt or a hot path.

Dark-colored dogs can be dressed in light-colored clothing – it heats up less than dark wool. After a walk, you need to treat your pet’s paws with special oil to prevent them from cracking. Do not walk your dog in the heat in a muzzle.

At home, you can take a cool bath to cool your pet – water procedures will ease his suffering from high temperatures.

Power adjustment

If physical activity is reduced, the dog will adjust his diet himself – he will switch to less food intake, refuse heavy food.

It is very important to drink plenty of water in the heat – the dog should always have fresh cool water available. At the same time, the amount of fluid consumed must be constantly monitored, since its lack can lead to dehydration.

If the owner observes symptoms of heat stroke in a dog, you should immediately contact a veterinarian.

Care of hair

The coat of the dog not only warms it in the cold, but also acts as a heat insulator in the heat, so cutting it completely would be a mistake. You can carefully comb out the undercoat or shorten the coat slightly if it is very fluffy. It is better to wash the dog with ordinary clean water, without resorting to shampoos. If there is a suitable reservoir near the house, you can teach your four-legged friend to swim. That way he’ll have another great way to cool off.

Cooling accessories

Relatively recently, dog accessories have appeared on the market to help in the heat: cooling mats, collars, scarves, boots, vests, blankets. They can also be used during the hot season.

Ways to help a pet escape from the heat depend on its breed and place of residence. The main thing is to carry out the necessary procedures in time, and then the dog will be able to relatively comfortably survive any heat.