SUMMER TIPS AND TRICKS TO KEEP YOUR DOG CHILL!

With summer getting closer we need to take extra care of our pets especially in this region. The temperatures can get as high as the mid 40°C range and it is important to protect our pets from this heat. At K9 friends we ensure that all our dogs are kept cool in the summer with AC, that are generously sponsored by the community in the UAE, and we make sure to offer them lots of water. We also suspend dog walking activities in the hotter months to avoid any heat strokes for the dogs amongst many other precautions we take. If you are wondering how to keep your dogs cool this summer here are some tips you can use:

1. Easy Access to water: Keep water bowls in multiple areas of the house. If you live in a multi-story house make sure to have them on all levels.

2. Ventilation: Keep the house cool with a fan or Air conditioner and make sure that your dogs play only in shaded areas.

3. Early/Late Walks: Stick to very early in the morning between 5:308:00 AM or very late at night after

9:00 -10:00 PM. The ground gets too hot during the day in this region, and this can cause your dogs’ paws to burn. Imagine walking outside in summer without shoes! By 9:00 PM the ground has probably cooled off enough for a safe outdoor walk. When humidity is high, please shorten your dog’s walks, to avoid your dog heating up rapidly.

4. Attention: Never leave a dog unattended in a car, this can lead to heat stroke and death.

5. Grooming: Never shave your dog. Especially if it is a double coated breed like a Husky. A dog’s fur protects them from the cold but also shields them from sunburns. Instead get them groomed so that they are comfortable in summer.

Despite all the care we take in keeping our dogs safe and cool in the summer it is important to know the signs of an incoming heat stroke to ensure safety.

Early Stages of Heat Stroke:

• Heavy panting

• Excessive drooling

• Balance problems

• Bright red gums

Advanced Stages of Heat Stroke

• Shallow or noisy breathing

• White gums

• Lethargy

• Vomiting

If you suspect your dog may be suffering from a heat stroke, take your dog indoors immediately or to a shaded spot and then apply a cool compress with cool tap water. DO NOT use ice water as it may shock your dog’s body. Seek medical help immediately. Finally, Summer is going great and if you want to treat your dog to some cooling treats here are some great homemade options that you can make a to let your dog cool off as long as they are not on any special diets.

• Frozen banana slices: Slice up a banana and freeze it and offer your dog a piece or two as a cooling treat.

• Cold Peanut Butter Kong: Put some peanut butter (which is xylitol free) on the edge of a size appropriate Kong and chill it for 30 mins in the freezer. Let your dog play with the Kong. They are entertained and it is a fun treat

• Yogurt: Add a spoon full of cool yoghurt in your dog’s meal. This is cooling and a great probiotic.

• Watermelon: Cut up watermelon is also a fun fruit treat for your dog. So next time you have some at home share a piece with your pooch!

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ARE YOU CONSIDERING ADOPTING ONE OF OUR DOGS?

We have dogs of all ages, sizes and personalities and are sure to have one to suit your family. Once you have decided to adopt a dog, your next step is to reach out to the K9 Friends office on 04 - 887 8739 or info@k9friends.com to make an appointment to come and meet our dogs.

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