They’re called the Dog Days of Summer, the span of days between July 3rd and August 11th where astronomy and astrology intersect. When the rising of the sun and the star Sirius, Orion’s dog, coincide. Sirius, known to the ancient Greeks to mean “glowing” or “scorcher,” shines brightly in the constellation Canis Major (Latin for “Greater Dog”), the Romans called it “days of the dog star” which the English translated to “dog days” by the 1500s.
So, no, the dog days of summer are not necessarily all about our furry friends who encourage us to keep moving even during the hottest months of the year, but it is a time to pause and think about how to properly care for them as they escort us on our walks. Following are a few things to consider before leashing up Rover and heading outside.
Heat Stroke
The most risk to our dogs during hotter months is heat stroke. According to this research, heat stroke is a term commonly used for hyperthermia or elevated body temperature. Generally speaking, if a pet's body temperature exceeds 103°F (39.4°C), it is considered abnormal or hyperthermic.
Though heat stroke occurs most often when a dog is left inside a hot car that is not well-ventilated, they can also suffer if they are exercised too vigorously when the heat and humidity is above 70 degrees fahrenheit. This is especially true for flat-faced dogs — like pugs, bulldogs and boxers — who have restricted airways. In order to regulate their temperature, dogs will pant, rather than sweat like humans as they only have a very small number of sweat glands in their foot pads.
Burned Foot Pads
Worried about burning your dog’s foot pads on hot pavement, concrete or even dirt and sand? The best rule of advice is not to walk your dog in the heat of the day, but you can also easily test your ground surface by placing the palm of your hand or bare foot on the ground. If you can’t comfortably hold it there for 3-5 seconds, then it is too hot for your dog.
If you return from a walk and find your pup licking at their pad or limping, try soaking their foot in room temperature water to help soothe their pads. This article instructs that if the pads become discolored or if the tissue under the pad becomes exposed, contact your veterinarian. Severe burns need to be treated professionally.
Dehydration
Heading out for a long walk or hike with your dog? It’s a good idea to carry a collapsible bowl and water with you to refresh your pet. Just as we need to stay hydrated, so do our pups.
As much as we need regular exercise for our mental and physical health, your dog needs it, too. Not only is it good for their bodies, but it also creates a valuable connection between you and them and is a great way to show them just how much you love them. So don’t let the dog days of summer hold you and your pooch back from getting out and achieving your goals. Just remember that their safety is in our hands, and as members of our families, we should do whatever it takes to keep them safe and healthy.