DOGGY BLOGGY

Hello and welcome to Doggy Bloggy, Enfield Dogaholics Blog!

I thought it would be a good idea to share helpful information with other dog owners that I've dredged up from the bowels of the internet and my own experience. Some things you will undoubtably already know and some others you may not...

Let's get started since we're moving into the summer I thought it would be good to talk about keeping your furry friend happy and healthy. One thing to remember is that dogs are vulnerable to overheating. Dogs are only able to lose excess heat by panting and sweating from their nose and paws.

On hot summer days it's a good idea to try to walk your canine early in the morning or later in the evening when it is cooler. If you do take them out in a warmer part of the day, make sure you take some water with you and a container to drink from and that you do not let them over exercise. An old ice cream container works well.

It's also helpful to know they layout of where you are walking. For example our local park, Jubilee Park in Enfield, there is a watering station specifically for dogs. I always allow them to drink there at least once before going home but I still carry water with me.

You should watch out for signs of heat exhaustion, especially if your dog is panting heavily and appears distressed after exercise on a hot day. Short nosed dogs, (e.g. pugs, boxers, French bulldogs ect) older and overweight dogs are particularly vulnerable to overheating.

Signs that your dog may be in trouble:

Panting heavily Excessive salivating Fast breathing, fast pulse, raised body temperature.

I realise not many people will have a thermometer on them but heat exhaustion occurs when their body temperature is over 39.3 degrees Celsius and Heat stroke over 41. (Heat stroke is a serious medical emergency and you should get urgent veterinary help)

To treat them for heat exhaustion use lots of tepid water and apply it all over the dog gently. If you can set up a fan near the dog to help the cool down process. Never use icy water the shock could endanger the dog more. Make sure the dog has easy access to drinking water too. Also contact your vet.

One last thing and just as important you should never leave a dog in a locked car, even with the windows open. For example on a day where it

is 21 degrees outside, the temp inside can increase up to 32 degrees in only ten minutes.

I hope that was helpful and please think of Enfield Dogaholics the next time you need a dog walker or pet sitter. We are a family business created for your family dog.