Mad Englishmen and Dogs

Here at Hixx we are obsessed with the inside-out.
Our determination to provide the best possible care for dogs means that for once, we feel that it is the outside-in that we need to focus on.
Keeping cool in soaring temperatures is enough of a challenge for us, imagine wearing a fur coat and then trying doing it. We believe in the power of responsibility for our brand and because we are also a collection of dog lovers, that responsibility extends to our and others dogs. We are unflinching in our determination to take dogs back to nature but lets do it in the cool of the day.
Here are some ideas as to how to help your dog through a hot summer.

We know it’s tempting to go for a sunny stroll with your dog but it could prove fatal.
Walk when it is cooler in the early morning or at night. It’s not just the air temperature that is a problem, asphalt and concrete can reach scorching temperatures which can result in burnt pads or even completely remove your dogs' pads. Think excruciating dash across burning hot sand. Just put the back of your hand against the ground to feel the temperature your dog is experiencing. Dogs absorb and release heat through their pads and so if the ground is too hot it can be a significant contributor to heat stroke. Dog boots are available but, if you think your dog needs them , it’s probably still too hot to walk anyway. Natural dog wax products are a good solution for sore and burnt paws. If your dog seems unwilling to go for a walk then trust their judgement and don’t make them. Check for signs of heatstroke and if everything is ok, wait for the temperature to drop before attempting to walk again. 

Avoid rigorous exercise in the heat.
We all know how fixated some dogs can get over a ball, they will keep chasing it until they keel over, a classic case of passion over brains. So, avoid throwing a ball or anything that encourages your dog to run, otherwise it could result in you running to the vet.

Keep your dog hydrated.
Nature is all about balance and so extreme heat needs to be tempered with shade and lots of fresh water. Dark haired dogs absorb more heat than light ones and are therefore more vulnerable to heat stroke. This is also true of very young and old dogs together with over weight ones. Also short nose dogs such as Pugs, Bull breeds and Boxers, have small tracheas and long soft palates which decreases their ability to cool themselves .
As soon as the good weather comes, it is an idea to always carry enough fresh water for a drink and to douse your dog down. Keep checking the water bowl at home and in the back of the car as well, a thirsty dog can empty it in just a few visits.

Dog spa. Create cool spots for them at home.
Think tropical oasis for dogs. Find a shady spot and put a wet towel there for your dog to lie on or place a fan on the floor in front of a pan of ice. Because dogs cool from the bottom up, sprinklers for misting your dog on the stomach and paws can be helpful as well and a dog paddling pool in the shade is even better. If you are within short trip to the beach, swimming with your dog will not only be very cooling for both of you but also a very bonding experience, as long as you don’t beat them to the ball in the water too often.

All good spas have a good restaurant as well.
So how about some frozen dog treats, peanut butter or yogurt frozen lollipops?

Hot cars kill dogs. FACT.
It seems incredible doesn’t it that we still need to be told not to leave a dog in a hot car but there it is. With over 7000 calls to the RSPCA 24 hour emergency hotline (0844 453 5098) last year and countless deaths, it is a point that still needs hammering home. Don’t forget that a cloudy day can quickly change to a very hot day. Leave them at home in the spa instead.

Breathe easy.
Because dogs don’t sweat, panting is an important part of cooling down. Muzzling a dog means that it won’t be able to do this and could have disastrous effects.

Sleep easy.
Because dogs can be sleep between 12 to 18 hours a day it is important to consider your dogs sleeping area. Leave a window or two open a little if it is safe to do so and put the bed close to it. The flow of air will help keep the temperature more comfortable. Our Float dog water beds are naturally cooling and breathable because they have nature at the very heart of them. They will also support your dog evenly which means no pressure points or skin hot spots. A better nights sleep means a happier and healthier dog.

Signs of possible heatstroke in your dog.

If a dog is showing signs of heatstroke the damage has often already been done so, prevention is the name of the game.
If your dog is showing any of these signs, take immediate action.

• When you notice your pet licking their paws or limping after being on the hot pavement, then you should see your veterinarian immediately. Dogs will continue to run or play in the pavement as long as their owners are there.
• Dehydration.
• Drooling.
• Lethargy.
• Blood shot eyes.
• Skin takes longer to fall back in place. 

The following steps should be taken, regardless of whether the dog is conscious, appears to recover well, or was only mildly affected:

• Put dog in a bath of cool ( not cold) water or cool them down by gently pouring water over them with a garden hose or jugs of water. Remember, they regulate their temperature from the ground up so feet, stomach, neck and then head.
• Massage the legs. This will help circulation and help reduce the risk of shock.
• Take the dog to the vet even if there seems to be recovery. Heatstroke can cause unseen problems, such as swelling of the brain, kidney failure, and abnormal clotting of blood. On the way to the vet, travel with the windows open and the fan on.