Forecasters estimate above-average temperatures to extend into August
July 26, 2023 (AUSTIN, Texas) – As scorching temperatures continue to sweep across many parts of the U.S., and forecasters estimate above-average temperatures to extend into August, dog owners are facing the challenge of keeping their furry companions safe and active during the hot summer days.
Thrive Pet Healthcare, a leading veterinary service network with 400 pet hospital locations across the U.S., is providing essential tips to dog owners on how they can safely exercise their dog during the higher temperatures.
“Dogs are more temperature-sensitive than humans, and their ability to regulate their body temperature is limited,” said Dr. Anthony Coronado, Thrive Pet Healthcare’s National Director of Emergency Services and Urgent Care. “As a general rule, you shouldn’t walk or exercise your dog outdoors when the temperature exceeds 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Flat-faced breeds such as French bulldogs, pugs, bulldogs and Boston terriers are more prone to heat exhaustion and should be exercised indoors when the outside temperature is above 70 degrees Fahrenheit.”
To ensure the safety and comfort of dogs during hot weather, Thrive Pet Healthcare recommends the following tips for dog owners:
Check the pavement temperature. Before walking your dog, place your hand on the pavement for five seconds. If it’s too hot for you, it’s definitely too hot for your dog’s paws.
Keep walks slow and brief (5-10 minutes maximum). Running may put your dog at risk of heat stroke. Keep walks slow and brief during the warmer season. Use caution when walking senior dogs and those with underlying illnesses, especially heart and respiratory diseases. They can be more vulnerable to heat stress.
Stay hydrated. Bring bottled water and a travel water bowl on your walk to keep your dog hydrated. Stop regularly for water breaks.
Seek shade. Choose shady places to walk out of the direct sunlight, like wooded areas or a tree-lined street.
Consider indoor doggy daycare or play groups. If your dog enjoys playing with other dogs, enrolling them in an indoor doggy daycare or joining an indoor play group can be a fun and safe option.
Explore indoor options for exercise. Participate in an indoor dog training class or visit dog-friendly stores and locations that allow pets inside their air-conditioned building. For dog owners who prefer to exercise their pets from the comfort of their home, Thrive Pet Healthcare provides a
list of indoor exercise ideas.
Exercise outdoors during the cooler part of the day. Temperatures are typically lower during the early morning and evenings. Midday is usually the hottest part of the day, and your dog will be most at risk of overheating. It’s best to keep your dog indoors as much as possible to avoid the midday sun. Never leave a dog outside during the hottest part of the day.
To locate a Thrive Pet Healthcare location near you, including primary, specialty, urgent and emergency veterinary care services, visit
www.ThrivePetCare.com.
About Thrive Pet Healthcare:
Thrive Pet Healthcare is a leading veterinary service network that uniquely delivers a continuum of care to pet families and services to veterinary hospitals. With an industry-first membership program and 400 acute, primary, and specialty providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare offers personalized, accessible care through every stage of a pet’s life and health. The veterinarian-founded organization provides premier benefits for practice staff while elevating privately held veterinary hospitals with innovative service and technology solutions. By focusing on the needs and aspirations of veterinary care providers, Thrive Pet Healthcare is supporting the well-being of the industry and raising the national bar for veterinary excellence. To learn more about Thrive Pet Healthcare, please visit
www.thrivepetcare.com.
