4 Tips to Stave off Heat-related Illnesses and Complications During Car Rides with your Pet
With the high summer temperatures, traveling with your dog becomes a hectic experience especially with risks such as dehydration, and heat stroke. Such situations are avoidable if you follow the following guidelines to keep your dog safe in the car during the summer heat.
Leaving your dog inside a parked car
If you are thinking of leaving your pet in the car, then at least ensure sufficient care before rushing out. Therefore, leaving the AC running and the window at least 3 inches open ensures no heat accumulation. However, this practice is not recommended and even illegal in some states.
Ensure ample shade and water for your dog
The average temperature of a dog’s body (101-102.5 degrees) makes it susceptible to heat stroke with the possibility of their temperature rising to 106 in under 30mins. Protecting the pet from the summer heat would need necessary measures. That could mean providing plenty of cold fresh water, ice-cubes fillings or simple a wet towel.
Limit your pet’s exercise
It is also important to be cautious about exercising your dog during the summer and leaving them in the car. Thus, it is advisable to limit the pet’s exercise before any ride. However, if the activity is essential, ensure you have some water to keep the dog hydrated.
Cooling your pet inside and out
You can choose to keep the dog hydrated by using a cooling body wrap or mat, soaked in fresh water. An aluminum foil can also offer the protection from the sun’s rays which pose the risk of sunburns.
Taking your dog along for a car ride can become a fun adventure for both you and your canine friend. Without the proper steps taken to safeguard your dog, the trip might end up becoming indeed not enjoyable.
Taking your dog along for a car ride can become a fun adventure for both you and your canine friend. Without the proper steps taken to safeguard your dog, the trip might end up becoming indeed not enjoyable.
