Summer Tips

GENERAL HEALTH & CARE

Podengos might have originated from a sunny climate but that doesn’t mean they’re immune to the effects of hot weather – far from it. Unlike humans, who sweat to keep cool, dogs don’t sweat very much and more commonly cool themselves down through panting. When there is only hot air for a dog to breathe, it’s a lot harder for that dog to keep cool. Here are some tips for keeping them cool. 

  • During warm weather it's especially important to help your dogs maintain a healthy weight. They're likely to be less active when it's hot so it can be a good idea to adjust the amount of food you give them to reflect how much energy they are using.
  • Regular grooming will keep your dog's coat clean and free of knots. This is important as matting can trap heat – this applies especially to wire coated Podengos.
  • Encourage them to stay in shaded areas and away from direct sunlight.
  • Keep dogs off of lawns that have been chemically treated or fertilised for 24 hours (or according to package instructions).
  • Some plants and flowers are toxic or even fatal for dogs. These include azalea, daffodil, grape vine, lily, ragwort and deadly nightshade. There’s a great information resource here: factsheetpoisonoussubstances09.pdf (dogstrust.org.uk)
  • Make sure your dog’s vaccinations are up to date, especially since dogs tend to stay outdoors longer and come into more contact with other animals during the summer months.
  • Vaccinations don’t protect against fleas and ticks so check your dog daily for these unwelcome visitors. 

WATER IS ESSENTIAL

It's important to ensure your dog has access to plenty of clean drinking water all year round, but especially in the summer. If you're out and about with your dog, ensure you always have a bottle of water and a bowl for them.

PLAN YOUR WALKS

Try and avoid taking your dog out in the midday sun. Early morning or evening walks will be cooler and more pleasant for your best friend. If it’s really hot, avoid strenuous exercise.

PROTECT YOUR DOG'S PAWS FROM HOT SURFACES

Protect their foot pads. Hot surfaces, particularly sand or tarmac, can do serious damage and really hurt your dog's foot pads. If these surfaces feel too hot for you, the chances are your dog's thinking exactly the same thing!

SUN CREAM FOR DOGS

Just like humans, dogs are at risk of burning in the sun if they're not protected – especially lightly coloured or thinly coated dogs. But the good news is you can pick up specially formulated sun cream for dogs at most pet shops. If you're unsure whether your dog needs sun cream, ask your vet.

For Podengos, this means smooth coated and predominantly white coated dogs should be monitored carefully.

SWIMMING 

It’s OK to let your dog go for a swim but remember that some dogs are natural swimmers whilst others won’t get a toe wet. Never force your dog into the water and don’t assume they’re a good swimmer. If they do want to go in, don’t let your dog overdo it: swimming is hard work and they may tire quickly. Never leave your dog unattended in water. 

When swimming in the sea, be careful of strong tides and wash them down with fresh water when they’ve finished.  Keep an eye open for jellyfish and other nasties.

If your dog wants to go into a pond, stream or lake be careful to look out for algae, especially blue green algae which is common but especially in stagnant water. Not all blue green algae are dangerous but some produce toxins that spread throughout the water and if swallowed, can cause organ damage and potentially death. If your dog does come into contact with blue green algae, act fast: don’t allow them to lick their fur, do wash them (if possible) and call your vet ASAP. They will probably make your dog vomit and give them a charcoal meal to remove or absorb any toxins already inside them.

NEVER LEAVE DOGS IN CARS

Leaving a dog alone in a hot car can be fatal. Even parked in the shade with the windows open, dogs can become distressed and uncomfortable very quickly. Make sure you always have a plan so your dog isn't left alone in the car or any other enclosed spaces.

SYMPTOMS OF HEAT STROKE IN DOGS AND ACTION TO TAKE 

Heatstroke develops when a dog can't reduce its body temperature and it can be fatal. Signs of heatstroke include: 

  • Heavy panting
  • Glazed eyes
  • A rapid pulse
  • Excessive salivation
  • Lack of coordination
  • Vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Loss of consciousness 

If you think your dog has heatstroke, you need to act fast. Take them to a cool, shaded area. Apply towels soaked in cold water to their head, neck and chest and let them drink water or lick an ice cube. Never place them directly into ice cold water or give them too much to drink as this may cause them to go into shock.