Here are some tips on keeping your dog safe in hot summer weather

1. Hydration:  Be certain your dog has access to water. When travelling or hiking, carry a portable bowl and several bottles of water.
2. Be aware of your dog’s coat and his weight:  Dogs with darker coats absorb more heat than dogs with lighter coats, and overweight dogs dehydrate faster. Keep this in mind when taking your dog on a hike, walk, run or just playing outside.
3. Never, never, ever leave a pet in a parked car.   Cars retain heat, even in the shade as we humans are well aware.   Dogs tend to bark and become excited by passersby and can become dehydrated from this excitement. When driving, put on the air conditioning or roll down the window. Have water available at all times.
4. Try different methods of cooling for your dog: Put a cold wet towel under his tummy, spritz him with water, add a cooling bed or jacket to his collection or bring him inside..  These are some great ways to cool down your pet. A new option is the innovative Dog cooling jackets or beds that use a wicking process to transfer the dog's body heat away from his body using a cold water system

5. You must monitor your dog:    They can’t tell you when they are too hot.  Check for the following: excessive drooling, lethargy, bloodshot eyes, and loss of skin elasticity. If you see one or more of these symptoms, cool down your pet with a spritz of water (especially to his tummy and paws), place a cool towel over or under your pet or take your dog inside the house.
If  your dog doesn’t show signs of improvement get in touch with your Veterinarian immediately.