How to beat the summer heat (Photo: Dog jumping into a swimming pool)
We’re in the middle of a heat wave. Today, we are expecting a high of 43°C with the humidex. These temperatures come with heat warnings. We are reminded to never leave people or pets unattended in parked vehicles, warned of deteriorating air quality, and alerted to which groups are most at risk to heat-related illness. This leaves many people asking how do I exercise my very active dog while keeping her safe from heat exhaustion?
Here are a few tips to drain your dog’s physical and mental energy when the temperatures soar:
Walk your dog early in the morning and later in the evening, to avoid hot pavement and exercising during the day. Keep exercise sessions short and always provide water. I like to head out just before sunrise to walk and play a short game of fetch.
Play games indoors where it’s cool. If you have air conditioning, try playing short games of fetch or tug o’ war inside. If you don’t have AC, be sure to use a fan to get the best air circulation you can. Be creative and have fun!
Think outside the box (Photo: Dachshund inside a cardboard box.)
3. Leash skills — Does your dog pull on the leash when you’re walking? Now is a great time to go back to basics and practice teaching them to heel indoors where there are less distractions. You don’t need a lot of space to teach your dog to walk beside you, just positivity and a willingness to learn something new.
4. Swim with your dog. Take your dog on an early morning hike to the nearest river or lake, or enjoy a swimming pool.
Take your dog swimming to beat the heat (Photo: two black dogs swim in a lake)
5. Nosework — Dogs love to use their noses. Hide their breakfast or dinner in small piles inside your home and watch them search for food. I like to hide the kibble inside treat dispensing toys, inside Kongs, under towels, inside bones, under my dog’s bed, and behind or under her stuffed toys. Be sure to hide food inside your dog’s crate as well, especially if you are working with a new puppy and want to encourage them to love their crate.
Searching for kibble or treats provides your dog with mental exercise (Photo: Spaniel sniffing near colourful boxes)
Always watch your dog closely for signs of heat stress and remember if you are hot, they are hot. Take lots of breaks in the shade, provide yourself and your dog with water during walks, and be creative with indoor activities.
Stay cool and safe, Dog Leaders!
Alyssa
Photos by: Murilo Viviani (dog jumping into a swimming pool,) Erda Estremera (Dachshund inside a cardboard box,) Jeremy Perkins (two black dogs swim in a lake,) James Lacy (Spaniel sniffing near colourful boxes.)