Beat The Heat Month

Summer is one of the best times of the year for everyone. However, during this time of the year,  temperatures will be soaring high. At Bark Atl's overnight cage-free dog boarding facility, we make sure we keep your dog's safe and cool during the summer heat. We have some informational tips to share so that you can beat the heat this summer:

Provide Shade To Lessen The Risk of Heat & Exhaustion

Making sure your dog is protected from the intense heat is vital during the blazing summer heat.  Unfortunately, dogs don't sweat as humans do. They sweat through their cool pads in small increments and use the panting technique to dispell heat. Their method of perspiration is less efficient than sweating which can cause them to overheat faster than humans. Not to mention, the overheating can lead to a heat stroke.

Understanding Signs of Heat Stroke

Paying attention to your dog's body language can be a life or death factor during the hot summer. When your dog's body overheats, it can make them prone to catching a heat stroke. Signs that you should look for in situations as such would be excessive panting, bright red tongue & gums, vomiting, bloody diarrhea, unsteadiness, collapses, and seizures. Heat strokes can quickly damage vital internal organs if not treated promptly. If you ever suspect your dog is having a heat stroke, try to cool them down by wetting their body, and take them to the vet immediately.

Beware of Walking Across Hot Surfaces

Being mindful of hot surfaces can save your pup from tremendous pain. Surfaces like concrete, asphalt, or sand can get very hot in the summer. When these surfaces get too hot, they can burn your dog's foot pads. Exercising with your dog during the early morning or late evening can help you avoid the possibility of your dog overheating or pad burns.

Remember Hot Cars Can Be Dangerous

Always remember never to leave your dog in the car no matter what. Even with the windows rolled down on a day where the weather is only 85 degrees, the inside of the car can rise to 102 degrees in less than 10 minutes.

Do Not Leave Your Dog Outside Too Long

Last but not least, never leave your dog outside for long periods during extreme heat levels. If it is too hot for you to be out, then it is too hot for your dog to be outside.