Saturday, June 07, 2008

How Can I Keep My Dog Cool In the Summer

Title: How Can I Keep My Dog Cool In the Summer
Author: Jeff Schuman

How Can I Keep My Dog Cool In the Summer
As the summer begins to heat up you will most likely be
taking your dogs on more walks outside and you will
probably enjoy playing with them in the sun. However, for
all the fun you are going to have, you must be thinking
about your dogs health.

By not keeping a dog cool in the summer you are opening the
door for heat-related illnesses and injuries to plague
him/her.

You may be surprised but dogs are actually able to get a
sun burn. If you have a white or lightly colored dog, they
are just as likely to suffer from a sunburn as we do when
exposed to the sun. If a dog undergoes long-term sun
exposure they can suffer from skin damage and possibly skin
cancer.

To prevent this from happening you are going to need to
limit the amount of time your dog spends in direct
sunlight. If you notice any type of sore or discoloration
you need to consult your veterinarian immediately. Common
areas that are effected are the nose, ears, and eyelids.

Your dog can also suffer from heat injury if they are
exposed to the sun for to long. Heat injury is when your
dog's body temperature exceeds it's ability to cool itself.
Your dog's normal body temperature is between 100 and 102.5
degrees Fahrenheit. If your dogs temperature rises above
106 F, it's normal cooling mechanisms get overwhelmed which
causes a heat stroke which will require medical treatment.

Large double-coated breeds are more susceptible to a heat
stroke. Other dog breeds that are suited for cold climates,
such as huskies, also have a low tolerance for heat and
humidity.

The best way to prevent a heat stroke is to give dogs a
summer hair cut. If you go to a good groomer they will be
able to cut your dog's coat down a few inches which will
allow them to dissipate the heat better. It is important
that you do not get the dogs hair cut all the way down to
the skin because this eliminates their protection from
sunburn and other injuries.

During the midday heat you should keep your dog indoors in
either a well-ventilated area or an air conditioned area.
If you are going to take your dog on a walk or play with
them you should do it later in the night or earlier in the
day when it is less hot outside.

Keeping a dog cool is very important because it protects
them from a heat stroke and from getting sunburned. This
article should have enlightened you on the two conditions
and ways to help keep your dog cool during the summer.

About the Author:

Jeff Schuman invites you to visit his Ideas Directory for
ideas on how to do almost anything. Whether you are
wondering how can I keep my dogs cool this summer or have a
question on something else you can find your answer here.
To see for yourself please click here now:===>
http://www.Ideas-From.us

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