Health and Safety

This information comes from the Upper Valley Humane Society, Enfield, NH

Hot Weather Considerations

Hot weather can be a particular challenge for your pets. Unlike humans, our pets’ fur and limited sweat glands mean that they are not able to effectively cool down by sweating. Large breed and short nosed dogs are particularly susceptible to problems with the heat. A continuous supply of cool, fresh water and never leaving your pet in a hot vehicle are two of the most important things you can do to help your pet in the heat.

Please be careful when exercising your dog in hot weather. Not overdoing exercise with older, overweight, and under conditioned dogs is always important...but especially so in hot weather. Exercising during the cooler morning and evening periods may help.

Box in Need of Water Heat stroke in dogs can be very serious and may result in death. Signs of heat stroke in dogs include:

breathing problems including intense, rapid panting and hyperventilating;
wide and/or glazed eyes;
gum paleness, graying, and dryness;
body movement issues such as unsteadiness, staggering, weakness, and collapse;
increased salivation followed by dry mouth;
deep red or purple tongue;
rapid pulse;
confusion or inattention; and
advanced signs including vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and comas.

Any dog body temperature above 105 degrees Fahrenheit is dangerous and should receive immediate attention (average normal temperature for dogs is 101).

Conditioning Considerations

While dogs can be wonderful walking and jogging companions, please remember that they face some of the same challenges as humans:

joint stress,
overexertion without adequate conditioning, and
being prone to injuryand often it’s hard to see early on when these things are bothering your dog – and they may not tell you right away!

Roadside Considerations

While out and about, please consider the various roadside conditions and encounters that may impact your dog including:

Foot pad wear and tear: Paw pads are not designed for asphalt and they can easily be torn by roadside debris or sustain burns during hot weather.
Environmental hazards: When you bring your dog into a new environment, please remember that your neighbors may use pesticides, cleaners, and other household items that can be toxic.
Responsible handling: You may also encounter new people, dogs, and other animals — not to mention traffic — while you are out. Please help ensure everyone’s safety by carefully managing your dog on leash.