Welcome to the Pet Fit Post, the official newsletter of Pet Fit - your friendly neighborhood dog walking service!
Summer is right around the corner, and the days will be running longer and hotter. Here at Pet Fit, we’re dedicated to making sure your pups are always safe and happy while in our care, and these days that includes keeping them cool, hydrated, and pest-free!
All of our staff keep an eye out for signs of heat intolerance or illness while out on our walks, and we ensure that water is fresh, cold, and full before and after walks. Some extra steps we offer during the summer months include:
- Adding ice to refreshed water bowls
- Temperature check of asphalt
- Taking breaks in the shade as needed for your pup’s comfort
- Brushing down/basic cleaning after a walk through the woods or in inclement weather
If your neighborhood has nearby access to forest trails, taking your pup on a walk in the woods is a great way to avoid the hot sun while giving your dog exercise and enrichment. You may be concerned about dirt and/or pests like ticks that are more present in the woods than in residential areas. Rest assured, we happily provide paw cleaning/wiping and tick brush-downs after a jaunt through the forest.
Additional resources to keep your dog cool while out on walks:
- A cooling vest! Lots of options, we like the Ruffwear Swamp Cooler, or the Ruffwear Cooling Gaiter for a lighter option.
- Paw balm - this protects their toes from the hot asphalt! This one by Vets Preferred is a safe bet.
- A towel in the freezer for during/after walks
- A dedicated water bottle and/or misting spray for during walks. Tons of options for water bottles, we like this walk-friendly mini one from Springer.
Remember, temperatures higher than 90 degrees can be dangerous for dogs, especially if your pup has a thick or dark coat, is younger than 6 months, elderly, obese, or a brachycephalic breed. Dogs don’t sweat like we do (only through their paws!), and they cool off by panting.
Additionally, looking at the wet-bulb and dew-point temperature is becoming more and more important when judging whether or not it is safe to take your dog outside. Humidity can play a role in heat stroke or other heat-related illnesses! We are always monitoring the weather at Pet Fit to ensure maximum safety and comfort for your pup and our staff.
The hottest part of the day tends to be 11am to 2pm, so if you’re able, you can adjust your walk times this summer so that your dog gets walked earlier or later in the day!
Heat stroke and other heat-related illnesses are often a major worry during the summer months, so staff are always on the lookout for any worrisome signs or behavior, such as:
- Excessive, quick panting, with the tongue displaced on the side of the mouth
- Excessive and continuous drooling
- Vomiting
- Uncoordinated movements/steps
- Pale gums
If you notice your dog displaying these symptoms during or after an outdoor activity or on a hot day, immediately move them into the shade or into your home, pour cool (not cold - we want to avoid shocking your dog) water on your dog’s paws and body, and if your dog worsens, contact your veterinarian ASAP. All staff at Pet Fit follow this protocol as well, and will monitor your pup and keep you apprised of the situation at all times.
Whether you decide to put your pet’s favorite after-walk treat in the freezer, or switch their walking route to a shady forest trail, Pet Fit is happy and ready to accommodate!
We’re so excited to walk your dogs this summer. Stay tuned for more tips, tricks, and anecdotes from all your friends here at Pet Fit.
