We’ve had some very hot summer days already so please remember to keep your basenjis/dogs cool in summer and protect them from the heat. Dogs cannot cool themselves down by sweating as humans do. They may sweat a small amount through their foot pads, but the main way a dog cools off is by panting. Unfortunately, panting is not enough to cool them down when it is extremely hot and humid. 1/ Fresh, Cool Water Dogs must have fresh, cool water available at all times. Make sure you keep large water containers in a shady location and change the water frequently. The heavy ceramic water bowls are best for keeping the water cool longer. Have a few large bowls of water around in case any get turned over or become too warm. Dogs will not drink warm water so it is important to keep the water in the shade. You could also add some ice blocks to help keep the water cool. 2/ Shelter from the sun We all know how much our basenjis love to sunbake but it is important to prevent them from doing this in extreme heat. We need to provide a cool, shady spot for them to relax. Prolonged sun exposure not only leads to heat exhaustion, it can also cause sunburn. Shade from trees is helpful, but an actual structure is better. Consider getting an insulated dog house, but make sure it is large and well-ventilated. An ordinary small dog house will become hot very quickly and will not keep the dog cool. Another idea is to put up some shade cloth or a canopy. The addition of a fan will help further cool things down. If possible, put the shelter in a shady area to keep it extra-cool. Of course, the most ideal shelter is inside your home with the air conditioning. If possible, install a doggie door to allow indoor access as needed. 3/ Cooling Dog Beds As mentioned before, your dog needs a cool, shady place to relax. Many dogs prefer to lie on tiles or concrete floors. However, a cooling dog bed can offer the comfort and softness of a typical dog bed with the coolness your dog needs. These beds are really good for senior dogs as an alternative for hard floors. There are several other products available to keep pets cool so check them out online. 4/ No walks during the heat of the day Never walk your basenji during the heat of the day. Instead opt for early morning or evening walks when temperatures are decreasing. Apart from getting over heated, dogs paws will get burned from walking on hot roads and foot paths. 5/ NEVER LEAVE DOGS IN CARS IN HOT WEATHER!!!! Not even for 1 minute. Temperatures in cars rise very quickly and your dog can die in a few minutes if left in the car a hot day even if parked in the shade with windows open. Your pet may die or suffer irreversible organ damage. 6/ Watch for signs of heat stroke Signs of heatstroke include: heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid heartbeat, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, lethargy, fever, dizziness, lack of coordination, profuse salivation, vomiting, a deep red or purple tongue, seizure, and unconsciousness. Our older dogs and very young dogs are the most vulnerable from suffering heat stroke. How to treat a dog suffering from heatstroke Move your basenji into the shade or into an air-conditioned area. Use ice packs or cold towels applied to the dogs head, neck, and chest or run cool (not cold) water over him. Let him drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes. Take your dog to a veterinarian without delay. Basenji Club Of Victoria Inc. 2015
Posted on: Mon, 05 Jan 2015 00:41:19 +0000
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