Tips to avoid hot dogs

With the Oslo temperatures ramping up and only set to climb higher in the coming days, I thought I would share some tips to help you avoid having a hot dog.

Firstly what can you do at home?

Ensure the rooms or room that your dog will be in is well ventilated. Leave some windows ajar so that a breeze can flow through.

Partially or fully close the curtains and blinds so that the rooms do not heat up when the sunlight hits them. Shade is the friend of the hot dog.

Make sure that your dog has easy access to plenty of water. At this time of year it is wise to have a second water bowl available in a different area so that they understand the need for hydration.

You might want to consider putting a couple of ice cubes in your dog’s water bowl before you leave for work in the morning. This will allow them to have cool and refreshing water for longer.

If your dog lives in a room with tiles, you can soak a towel before work and leave it damp on the floor.

Onto the walks..

Plan your walk with regards to your dog’s energy levels. There is no point planning a 3-hour hike in the sun with an old dog which will want to lie down after 40 minutes.

Sticking on the planning front, your walk should include being near sources of water. Lakes, rivers and streams make for ideal refreshment stops where they can cool down.

Remember that dogs do not have the ability to sweat and will need to get rid of the excess heat through panting.

Despite the long Winter we have just had the woods are surprisingly dry already. Take enough water for both you and your dog. Remember to take something that they can drink out of, for example a travel water bowl. These fold away nicely and will fit in your pockets.

Even if your dog is as super energetic as mine, restrict the amount of things that you throw for it.

Playful dogs rarely have an off switch. We need to use our own reason to help them not overheat.

Observe your dog and evaluate throughout the walk. If they are showing signs of overheating, why not just take a 5 minute break and sit with them in the shade and enjoy nature.

If driving home after your walk then make sure you do not leave your dog unattended in a parked car for more than a few minutes.

If you have an old available spray bottle, you can clean it thoroughly and then fill it with water. Spray a little water two or three times over your dog’s face before they get in the car. This will keep them cool and refreshed for the journey home.

I am aware that modern cars have functions with pet control to ensure lower temperatures, but were there to be a malfunction it could be easily fatal during hot weather.

I hope that these tips have been useful and their might even be one or two you had not previously thought about.

Doggies: Jello, Quila, Ibsen, Haraka and Lexi