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Bengaluru: With temperatures rising sharply across several parts of India, pet health experts are warning of increased risks for dogs during the summer season. Heatwaves not only affect humans but also pose serious health threats to pets, especially dogs, who are more vulnerable to extreme heat due to their limited ability to regulate body temperature.

Pets cannot vocalise discomfort the way humans do and often rely on subtle body language to communicate distress. However, these signs can easily be misread or ignored by pet parents. As a result, experts emphasise the need for proactive care, particularly during peak summer months when heatstroke and dehydration cases tend to rise.

Speaking on the issue, pet nutritionist Anjali Kalachand, co-founder of A Petter Life, highlighted the importance of closely monitoring pets and adapting daily routines to suit the harsh weather conditions.

Why heatwaves are dangerous for dogs

Dogs primarily cool themselves through panting, unlike humans who sweat. This makes them more susceptible to overheating, especially in extreme weather conditions. Prolonged exposure to heat can lead to excessive panting, rapid fluid loss and, in severe cases, heatstroke a potentially life-threatening condition.

According to experts, early signs of heat stress include heavy panting, lethargy, drooling, vomiting and difficulty in movement. If left unattended, these symptoms can escalate quickly, making immediate preventive care essential.

Avoid shaving your dog’s coat

One common misconception among pet parents is that shaving a dog’s fur helps them stay cool. However, experts caution against this practice.

Kalachand explained that a dog’s coat acts as a natural insulation system. It not only helps regulate body temperature but also protects the skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. Shaving the coat completely can expose the skin to sunburn and increase the risk of overheating.

She particularly advised against shaving double-coated breeds such as German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever and Siberian Husky. Instead, light trimming and regular grooming are recommended to maintain hygiene without compromising natural protection.

Ensure proper hydration

Hydration plays a crucial role in protecting dogs from heat- illnesses. With rising temperatures, pets lose fluids more rapidly, making it essential to ensure constant access to fresh drinking water.

Experts suggest offering cooling alternatives such as frozen treats, including unsweetened yoghurt or specially formulated dog-friendly ice creams. However, pet parents are advised to avoid sugary treats, as they can lead to weight gain and other health complications.

Maintaining hydration not only helps regulate body temperature but also reduces the risk of dehydration and heatstroke.

Adjust walking schedules

Another key precaution is altering daily walk timings. Walking dogs during peak sunlight hours can expose them to extreme heat, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion.

Kalachand recommends taking dogs out for walks before sunrise or after sunset when temperatures are relatively lower. This reduces direct exposure to the sun and ensures a safer outdoor experience.

Additionally, pet owners should avoid walking dogs on hot pavements or roads, as these surfaces can become extremely hot and cause burns on their paw pads. A simple test placing your hand on the ground for a few seconds can help determine if the surface is safe for pets.

Never leave pets inside parked cars

Leaving pets inside parked vehicles, even for a short duration, can have fatal consequences. During summer, the temperature inside a car can rise rapidly due to the greenhouse effect, trapping heat within minutes.

Experts warn that even slightly opening windows does not significantly reduce the internal temperature. Since dogs cannot cool themselves efficiently, being trapped in such conditions can quickly lead to heatstroke and even death.

Pet parents are strongly advised to never leave their animals unattended inside vehicles, regardless of the duration.

Conclusion

As heatwaves become more frequent and intense, ensuring pet safety has become a critical responsibility for owners. Simple measures such as maintaining hydration, adjusting routines and understanding a pet’s natural physiology can significantly reduce health risks.

Experts stress that prevention is the best approach. By recognising early signs of distress and making small but effective changes in daily care, pet parents can help their dogs stay safe, comfortable and healthy throughout the summer season.